Final from the Metrodome: Green Bay 44, Vikings 31
Story of the game: The Vikings (1-6) had no answer for Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. He completed 24 of 29 passes for 285 yards and two touchdowns, methodically mixing in passing and running plays to perfection. The Packers (5-2) did not have to punt once.
Ground game: Eddie Lacy rushed 29 times for 94 yards for the Packers, who ran 11 times more than they passed.
Vikings highlight: Cordarrelle Patterson returned the opening kickoff an NFL record 109 yards for a touchdown.
As expected: Christian Ponder's return as the Vikings starting quarterback was very Ponder-like. He passed for only 145 yards in relief of Josh Freeman (concussion). Expect Freeman to start next Sunday at Dallas.
Just sayin': The NFL trade deadline is Tuesday. Although NFL in-season trades are rare, the Vikings might be considering something as they are clearly now turned toward building for the future.
