Minnesota Vikings vs Detroit Lions: 5 keys to victory in week 9
By Adam Carlson
Develop new protection schemes
After the Philadelphia Eagles showed teams the best way to attack the Vikings quarterback, the Chicago Bears were able to carry out a similar strategy to make quarterback Sam Bradford’s day a living hell.
The Vikings will need to give their offensive tackles some help. Whether that means keeping running backs or tight ends in to help out, it is essential that the new look offense under Pat Shurmur will need to make better efforts when it comes to quarterback protection.
That also means fewer long drops and plays which take longer time to develop. Slants, screens, anything that is necessary in order to keep the passing game afloat will be essential in establishing some sort of offense after two disappointing weeks.
Detroit has 18 sacks on the season, led by defensive tackle Kerry Hyder who has 5. While that may not seem like much through 8 games, the Lions should be drooling at a chance to pounce on Bradford.