This week's LPR

Today's local power rankings look far different than my last attempt to rank local revenue-generating sports teams:

1. Minnesota Vikings

Great week for the local NFL franchise, and its legacy. Adrian Peterson wins the MVP Award, then admits he played at the end of the season despite a sports hernia.

When I was talking to him Saturday night, I asked when he'd work out again. He said ``In four weeks." When I asked whether that was doctor's orders, he said, ``You got that right." Of course, I thought we were talking about his knee. Wish I had asked whether it was his ``abdomen," as the Vikings listed the injury.

Cris Carter made the Hall. Matt Birk won a ring.

Great stuff.

2. Gopher hockey

3. The Wild

Disappointing start, but the team's at .500 while sorting out a lot of new combinations in a season without a true training camp.

4. MInnesota Twins

Fans are going to get sick of me saying `Wait until next year," but...wait until next year.

5. Gopher basketball

Next time they play a quality opponent that slows down the pace, count how many baskets they score that aren't a result of a covered three-point shot or an offensive rebound. You won't need both hands.

6. Timberwolves

It's sad, seeing what has become of such a promising roster. Wait til next year. Again.

7. Gopher football

I think the idea that the Gophers can't win because there isn't enough talent in the state is bogus. If the Gophers consistently landed a good percentage of the best players in Minnesota, the Dakotas and Western Wisconsin, and occasionally landed an out-of-area gem like Maroney, they'd have more than enough talent to compete.