First-half observations from our crew. Even though the Vikings are now down three defensive starters (FS Darren Sharper left the game with an ankle injury) they’re certainly bringing all kinds of pressure and held the Eagles to three field goals on three consecutive possessions.

Cornerback Asante Samuel set an NFL playoff career record with his fourth interception return for a touchdown, giving the Eagles a 16-7 lead over the Vikings with less than seven minutes left in the second quarter.

One of the “X-factors” coming into this game was Eagles rookie DeSean Jackson against a Vikings punt-coverage unit that ranks last in the league, allowing an average of 15 yards per return. Now we see why, as Jackson just had a 62-yard return. When asked about the matchup this past week, Jackson played coy, saying, “I might have some opportunities.”

You certainly couldn’t tell from the noise level in here that the Vikings had a problem selling out the Metrodome. NFL Network player correspondent Jon Jansen said he played here in college, and it was one of the loudest places in which he has ever played.

NFL Network’s Kara Henderson is dreaming of Vikings coach Brad Childress rocking a “skullet” as she prepares for Sunday’s NFC Wild Card Game in Minnesota.