"Communication was the catalyst behind quarterback Brett Favre and wide receiver Sidney Rice connecting 83 times for 1,312 yards last year.

Apparently, Favre's really big on it, Rice says.

"Just listening to the things that he tells me and understanding what he's talking about is a big thing," said Rice, who is nursing a surgically repaired hip and has missed the Vikings' first two games. "In the huddle, practice, film, all of those things."

If the Vikings' passing game is going to find success in the near future, Favre and wide receiver Bernard Berrian better start texting, calling, e-mailing, twittering and outpouring football feelings through all communication outlets.

San Diego Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson might soon be a Viking via trade, but for now, Berrian and Favre still have each other despite struggles connecting on the field through the first two games.

Berrian, who was abrupt in a Monday interview, said the pressure he's taking from outsiders, presumably media and fans, about the offense is too much. Berrian has three catches for 27 yards this season in a passing attack that ranks 24th in the NFL at 185 passing yards per game.

"From the outside? Definitely," said Berrian of the pressure.

From the inside?

"No," Berrian said. "From position coaches, no."

Berrian wasn't as direct on the subject of replacing Rice, starting to comment before declining.

"I don't think it's unfair at all," Berrian said. "Just, I don't even know how to answer that question. I'm not going to go there. I don't want to answer that question."

Berrian must be the primary option. Percy Harvin is nursing a hip injury, Rice won't return until midseason. Newcomer Greg Camarillo is still trying to find his offensive identity with the Vikings. And Greg Lewis is a backup.

Any chemistry between Favre and Berrian didn't show itself at the Metrodome on Sunday in a 14-10 loss to the Miami Dolphins, when Favre threw six passes Berrian's way that produced two catches, two interceptions, one interception that was negated because of an offside penalty and one incompletion. "