REFLECTIONS

My favorite number is 22.

It represents the number on the jersey back of Harrison Smith, Minnesota Vikings All-Pro safety. This number also follows my birthdate month, May of 1945.

Smith had a banner day against the Detroit Lions last week, coming out of nowhere at times to swat away a Lions pass from their quarterback, Jared Goff.

Smith is a pure example of finely tooled experience. Against the first-place Lions, Smith rose high to block a Lions pass, and he also picked up a fumbled football late in the game.

Smith is playing in his 14th season with the Vikings. He displayed that honed toughness to support his team.

Under a willingness to take the hardest punch of his rivals, Smith is afraid of no opponent.

The end of another National Football League season has people wondering if Smith will continue for another season. The Vikings have recognized his value and have continued offering him a contract. 

The Minnesota Vikings selected Smith in the first round (29th overall) of the 2012 NFL draft, after trading up with the Baltimore Ravens. On May 31, 2012, the Vikings signed Smith to a four-year, $7.13 million contract with $5.78 million guaranteed and a signing bonus of $3.63 million.

Follow Smith in the Vikings game with the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Nov. 23. Show your colors, green and gold or purple and gold.