Just when you thought the Minnesota Vikings’ offensive line couldn’t get any more banged up, the football gods decided to throw another wrench in the works. It is starting to feel like the team’s offensive front is being held together with duct tape and a prayer.
Vikings O-Line Woes Worsen
During Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Vikings lost not one, but two key linemen, adding to a list of woes that would make even the most optimistic fan a little queasy. Right Tackle Brian O’Neill, a two-time Pro Bowler and one of the few bright spots on this line, went down with a knee injury during a first-quarter field goal attempt. He walked off under his own power, giving fans a flicker of hope, but was later ruled out. It is like getting a flat tire right after you just fixed another one.
As if that wasn’t enough, Center Ryan Kelly, who had already missed time with a concussion, was pulled from the game to be evaluated for another one. This is after the Vikings were already playing without their starting rookie guard, Donovan Jackson, who’s nursing a wrist injury. At this rate, they might have to start holding open tryouts in the stands.
What’s Next For the Vikings?
The domino effect is brutal. With a patchwork line, Quarterback Carson Wentz has been sacked six times through three quarters. It is hard to establish any offensive rhythm when your quarterback is constantly running for his life and the running backs are getting hit before they even cross the line of scrimmage.
The timing couldn’t be worse. The Vikings are in the middle of a European tour, with a game against the Cleveland Browns looming next week. The team’s depth is being tested in the worst way, and the coaching staff is left scrambling for solutions. Can they piece together a functional offensive line for the rest of this stretch? Vikings fans are holding their breath, hoping for a miracle. Or at the very least, a lot of bubble wrap for the remaining players.
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