Tarvaris Jackson must make productive plays starting with preseason game No. 1 on Friday night in the Metrodome against Seattle. The third year Vikings’ quarterback needs to be intent on building momentum and confidence during the team’s four preseason games leading up to the Game of the Century (sort of) on September 8 in Green Bay against the Packers, the regular season opener.
Not that Jackson, 25, doesn’t need to see his progress chart escalate beyond September 8. Let’s be honest, to inspire himself, the coaches, teammates, fans, media and anyone else, he’s going to have to play in the first four preseason games and early regular season games like never before.
With the franchise having NFC North Division and playoff intent, much is expected of the young quarterback who is one of the most discussed athletes to ever play in this town. The problem so far is that the discussion comes down to this: He hasn’t accomplished much.
A Jacksonologist might recite his numbers like a grade schooler can spit out the alphabet. In two seasons, 14 games started, 218 completions, 318 attempts, 16 interceptions and 11 touchdowns.
As the team’s only viable big-time play maker at quarterback, Jackson has to start performing with consistency and delivering the deliverables. Anything less, will be, well, not confidence or momentum developing.
The Jackson support team will defend its man with numerous arguments, the most convincing of which is that it takes time and experience to be a productive No. 1 NFL quarterback. Look, supporters argue, he played better last season than the year before. He has athletic gifts including a quick release, strong arm and ability to elude tacklers. He’s worked hard to understand the offense and himself in the quarterback role. He wants the challenge he finds himself in starting Friday night.
It sounds good but it all sounds like potential to perform, too. I guess that might be what Sports Illustrated sees. In last week’s issue the magazine rated Jackson No. 31 among 32 NFL quarterbacks listed in its fantasy football preview.
Memo to S.I. and the rest of us: Check back after the Game of the Century.