None of the Super Bowl talk in the NFC North division is centered around what the Minnesota Vikings are doing. The Packers are still the clear favorite to win the division and make their second Super Bowl appearance in three seasons. The Bears seem to be much improved with the addition of Brandon Marshall, a re-signed Matt Forte and healthy Jay Cutler. There's also the talented, yet troubled Lions who are still knocking on the door of the league's elite.
But the Vikings' team goals are making the most of what they have and turning some heads along the way. That's why the wide receiver battle will be worth watching here, because not much is expected of them or second-year quarterback Christian Ponder, who has had his erratic moments in the preseason and training camp.
Aside from Percy Harvin, Ponder's going to be throwing to backup receivers like Stephen Burton and Kerry Taylor -- no names, essentially. Still, wide receivers coach George Stewart says he feels confident that Minnesota will have five quality receivers when the season opens against the Jaguars.
The mystery is whether or not those are going to come from the guys they already have.
For more on the Vikings, visit The Daily Norseman and SB Nation Minnesota.