by Pioneer Press , St. Paul Pioneer Press

Vikings receiver Percy Harvin stood out with his explosive kick returns, and he had a great catch deep over the middle that gave the Vikings a 24-3 lead early in the third quarter. Harvin caught the ball with three Packers defenders near him and outran everyone to the end zone for a 51-yard score. He got past cornerback Charles Woodson off the line and made the grab in front of safety Atari Bigby before turning and taking a good angle into the end zone following a nice block by teammate Greg Lewis.

THE FAVRE EFFECT

On Percy Harvin: Harvin is on his way to making a strong case for NFL rookie of the year. Favre's great throws and Harvin's tough catches have been a great combination.

On the Packers: Favre played well against his old team, again, and he's the biggest reason the Packers don't have much chance to win the NFC North Division.

On the Vikings : The Vikings are 7-1 heading into the bye week with a commanding lead in the division. They went 2-1 during what appears to be their most difficult stretch of the season (Baltimore and road games at Pittsburgh and Green Bay).

THE Vikings MARKET

Percy Harvin: Explosive return man and receiver.

Adrian Peterson: Asserts his will.

Ray Edwards: Growing as a pass rusher.

Coach Brad Childress: First win at Green Bay (1-3).

Jared Allen: Abused Packers rookie T.J. Lang.

THE QUOTE

UP NEXT

The Vikings have a bye next week coming off an emotional rivalry game against the Packers. They have a week to heal and get ready for the second half of the season. Their next game is against Detroit Nov. 15 at the Metrodome. The Lions lost 17-10 Sunday at home against St. Louis and allowed 149 rushing yards and a touchdown to Steven Jackson.

-- Rick Alonzo

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