It was evident from the first game that the Minnesota Vikings had significant issues on their offensive line. Now, getting right tackle Brian O’Neill out indefinitely with a sprained MCL complicates matters even further. O’Neill, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, could miss some time. Yet, an extremely tough stretch of the season looms large in front of the team. The Vikings may have lost that game in a heartbreaking finish, falling 24-21, but the ramifications of what these injuries mean go far beyond just on-field performance.
Ryan Kelly, the Vikings’ starting center, had a shaky day under the spotlight as well. He departed the game with a concussion. That’s his second concussion this season and at least the fifth of his NFL career. Not replacing him at this moment creates more questions about the depth of that offensive line. This unit has now turned into a tattered coalition floundering in the wake.
With Kelly sidelined, Blake Brandel filled in to complete the circle of replacement. The adjustments have placed additional strain on the Vikings’ offensive line, which is already in a precarious position following O’Neill’s injury. The instability along the front line has been a major factor in the young quarterback’s struggles. He was under constant duress all game long.
On a key series, the quarterback’s first two passes were batted down at the line of scrimmage. This resulted in a series of interceptions that turned the momentum against the Vikings. The quarterback took a critical intentional grounding penalty in the face of pressure that sunk the team’s last drive. This error would turn out to be an expensive one. It limited their opportunities to mount a comeback in a closely contested game.
As Minnesota looks forward to their next game against the Chiefs, they’ll need to make sure these glaring problems on their offensive line are fixed. O’Neill and Kelly’s presence may already be missed in the high-stakes, high-action game. This forces the coaching staff to become savvier with scheme and gameplan to ensure the team maintains a competitive advantage.
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