You had to sense this was coming. As charmed a life as the Vikings were living in the first six games this season, this so-called bit of “luck” that some experts were calling it  was bound to run out. Unfortunately, it came in a game where Minnesota had chances  to take the lead (including one in the final two minutes again), only to see them evaporate with two turnovers from Brett Favre returned for touchdowns by the Pittsburgh Steelers en route to a 27-17 victory. And while Favre’s interception and return by linebacker Keyaron Fox was what eventually sealed the game, it was actually due to the ball slipping through Chester Taylor’s hands on a screen pass.

Again, the Vikings play calling in the red zone caused more problems. Who other than Brad Childress would call a screen pass there? There’s a little over a minute to go, and you’re only down three. You already have a tying field goal in pocket, Brad. Take a chance down the field for the win and rely on the defense to make a play late if you score too early.

As expected, Adrian Peterson did struggle in yardage, but he was able to get a 1-yard touchdown run early on. Of all the offensive statistics, the one one that stands out is Favre throwing 51 times. This offense is at its best when they are able to balance the number of throws and runs out. He did throw for over 300 yards, however. Sidney Rice continues to improve his game, coming up with 11 receptions for 136 yards. He and Favre have definitely developed a rapport, and they needed to with Bernard Berrian coming up lame again.

The defense did a solid job Sunday, limiting Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to 175 yards passing, and holding Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes to three catches combined, all of that with Pro Bowl corner Antoine Winfield out with a broken foot. They even managed to sack “Big Ben” three times.

Other than the missed opportunities in the red zone, penalties played a factor as well. Minnesota was flagged 11 times for 78 yards, something that had been under control for the most part since the preseason. I’m not a big fan of complaining about poor officiating (to me, it normally evens itself out over a season), but the phantom “tripping” call on tight end Jeff Dugan in the fourth quarter was inexcusable. Blockers are taught to cut block by going low and through a player to get them down on the ground. The Steeler defender was able to get through the block, but went down after getting caught up with Dugan’s legs as he went by him. No blatant tripping attempt, but one that was called anyway. It cost the Vikings a touchdown pass to Sidney Rice that would have given them a 17-13 lead midway through the fourth. Instead, Lamar Woodley returned Favre’s fumble back for a touchdown three plays later to extend Pittsburgh’s lead to 20-10.

Thank goodness for Percy Harvin’s kick returning skills and another huge return for a touchdown on the following play. He may still be working on his receiving skills, but his world-class speed makes the rookie a threat to score every time he touches the ball. He’s certainly a prime candidate for Rookie of the Year honors at this point in the season.

In the end, this game was a case of where the Vikings dominated on every statistic you can think of, except the scoreboard. Until they are able to capitalize more often in the red zone, there’s bound to be another game or two like this one, where squandered opportunities cost them a win.

Check back later this week for a preview and my prediction of Brett Favre’s return to Lambeau Field against the Packers.