Tarvaris Jackson Showing Improvement

Blogcasting the National Football League, Blogcasting the NFL

As Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tarvaris Jackson prepares for his second full season as a starter, it’s obvious he is showing improvement. According to Vikings offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell at the team’s minicamp today:

“I think he’s better in every area from this time last year to where he is now. He’s made great improvements, and that’s a credit to him and how hard he’s wanted to work to get better.”

The Vikings have given Tarvaris some help with the addition of wide receiver Bernard Berrian, but that’s about it. TJack will have to greatly improve his numbers if the Vikings are going anywhere near the playoffs this season. Last year, he threw for 1,911 yards with nine touchdowns and 12 interceptions — hardly worthy stats for a starting quarterback in the National Football League. I’ve never doubted his talent, but I have questioned his decision-making. Hence more INTs than TDs. Make no mistake, though — a powerful offensive line and the all-world play of running back Adrian Peterson kept Minnesota competitive in 2007. Of course, it was the Vikings’ defense that kept them in most of their games. Now the offense will have to step up and carry their share of the load. And that responsibility ultimately falls on Tarvaris Jackson.

Photo: Newscom