Dakota Dozier – OG
Josh Kline has been great for the Vikings this year. He’s been excellent as a run blocker, often getting to the second level, and making key blocks that have sprung Dalvin Cook for some big runs. Unfortunately, he is going to miss this Sunday’s game after suffering a concussion against the Raiders. This puts Dakota Dozier in a tough spot against a very good Bears defensive line.
Dozier has been a surprise himself this season. He was seen as a long shot to make the team when he was signed in the offseason. Dozier went on to have a great training camp and preseason.
He showed versatility playing some tackle, and that helped him secure a spot on this roster. He stepped in for Kline last week, and the offense didn’t miss a beat. He will need to have the game of his life against the Bears talented line this Sunday.
The one potential bright spot for Dozier is that Akiem Hicks may not play. It sounds like he’ll be a game-time decision and that is nothing but good news for the Vikings’ road graders. Even without Hicks in the Bears lineup, this is a daunting task for Dozier.
Khalil Mack often lines up on the left side of the Bears line and Dozier will find himself trying to help contain arguably the best pass rusher in the league. Hopefully, the Vikings plan is to always keep two men on Mack, but either way, Dozier will need to step up in a big way if the Vikings are going to emerge victoriously.