Saints RB Adrian Peterson furious with coach Sean Payton

WR Stefon Diggs’ two first-half touchdowns were the first for a Minnesota player in one half of the season opener since Moss accomplished the feat in 2004.

Penalties hurt the Saints as they had six for 52 yards, two of which were for 15 yards and extended the Vikings’ opening scoring drive. He wasn’t targeted on any passes, and the Saints went into the locker room down 16-6.

“I believe they are going to win and I have all my hope in Drew Brees, he always comes through for us”, said this female Saints fan. Once Payton turned around to the running back, Peterson gave his coach a brutal staredown.

Perhaps Peterson would have seen more action if the game had played out differently, but it’s possible he will always remain third among the trio in touches since New Orleans is a pass-first offense – especially if the Saints’ defense keeps forcing them to play from behind. “I think we’ll be able to”. He carried the ball six times for 18 yards, which is tied for his third-worst rushing output in the regular season.

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen (19) is tackled by New Orleans Saints linebacker Manti Te’o, right, after making a reception during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Sept. 11, 2017, in Minneapolis. Between Peterson, Mark Ingram and rookie Alvin Kamara, the Saints have multiple options in their crowded backfield. Quarterback Sam Bradford remains the man as Teddy Bridgewater continues to work his way back from his devastating injury last season. “I could’ve said, ‘I love you'”.

New Orleans (0-1) kicked field goals on its first four trips to the red zone until Brees connected with tight end Coby Fleener for an 8-yard touchdown with 1:56 left in the game.

Of course, the way the game unfolded, with New Orleans facing a 10-point deficit by halftime and a 17-point deficit in the fourth quarter, had something to do with Peterson’s limited usage. His hands are about as soft and supple as an anvil, and he rarely was much good or much help in the Vikings’ passing game.

If the Vikings offensive line continues to play like it did Monday night, Green Bay is going to have some serious competition in the NFC North.

After sitting out almost the entire season, a remorseful Peterson returned in 2015 to win his third rushing title and restore some of the goodwill he had lost during the previous year.

“Just communicating with him”, Peterson told reporters.

ABOUT THE VIKINGS (2016: 9-8 SU, 9-7 ATS, 7-9 O/U): Sam Bradford benefited from a short-yardage passing game to set an National Football League record for completion percentage last season, due in large part to the team’s inability to run the ball.