Minnesota Vikings at Carolina Panthers: 5 keys to victory

Nov 30, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings cornerback Captain Munnerlyn (24) and linebacker Chad Greenway (52) tackle Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen (88) during the fourth quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Panthers 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 22, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings offensive lineman T.J. Clemmings (68) against the Green Bay Packers at TCF Bank Stadium. The Packers defeated the Vikings 30-15. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

#1: T.J. Clemmings needs to rise to the occasion

The headlines regarding the Vikings have been focused on how much the Minnesota Vikings will miss Adrian Peterson while he recovers from his meniscus tear, but the real question mark lies with how the loss of Matt Kalil will impact the team.

Yes, Kalil struggled mightily prior to his injury, but he was still the best option the team had to protect their quarterback’s blind side. Now, last year’s right tackle, T.J. Clemmings, will be taking over for Kalil.

It will be interesting to see how Clemmings performs in this new role against Panthers defensive end Kony Ealy. Thankfully, Ealy hasn’t been lighting the league on fire so far this year, but he should challenge the young offensive tackle with every single play.

The one area where Clemmings should excel is run blocking. Although Adrian Peterson is gone, there should be holes opening up and down the entire offensive line, with a gap between Clemmings and Boone a very possible route.

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