PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 21: Case Keenum #7 of the Minnesota Vikings is tackled by Fletcher Cox #91 of the Philadelphia Eagles during the fourth quarter in the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field on January 21, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
PHILADELPHIA, PA – JANUARY 21: LeGarrette Blount #29 of the Philadelphia Eagles is congratulated by his teammates after scoring a second quarter rushing touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field on January 21, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /
The Bad Things
Offensive line protection. Keenum had no time in the pocket early, which was evidenced on the Vikings second and third drives of the game that resulted in a pick 6 and a punt. If Keenum gets time, he can ball. If not, it’s gonna be a long day.
Stopping the big running backs. Minnesota has been good at stopping the run game this year. However, they struggled more against the bigger, bruising running backs, who managed to pick up more yardage after contact. Blount fits that description well.
Getting beat by speed and size. The Vikings were without several members of their secondary during stretches of the game and having to match up against players like Alshon Jeffrey and Zach Ertz became nightmarish for Minnesota.
Not taking points when possible. When it’s a 4 possession game and you can narrow it to 3 with a field goal, you take those points instead of gambling on a long 4th and goal. Zimmer made the horrible decision not to kick when points and momentum are needed.
Not changing the OL back. I still don’t understand Hill at tight tackle and Remmers at left guard. Hill got dominated last week, and this week was no better as pressure constantly got to the quarterback on his side.
