Brian O’Neill – RT
The Minnesota Vikings offensive lined stepped up in a huge way against the Saints in the Wild Card Round, and really haven’t received enough credit or accolades for how well they played. They kept Cameron Jordan and the Saints pass rush in check and also were able to open up big holes for Dalvin Cook to shoot through. It was easily one of their best performances of the season.
Brian O’Neill was especially good. He was tasked with stopping Cameron Jordan and with the exception of one meaningless sack, he did just that. Kirk Cousins had plenty of time to make the key throws that helped put the team in position to win and Brian O’Neill’s solid play was a big reason why.
This Saturday afternoon the task doesn’t get any easier for O’Neill. He’ll be lined up across from 49ers defensive end Arik Armstead. Armstead isn’t as big of a name as Cameron Jordan, but he does have 10 sacks on the season.
When Armstead takes a breather, O’Neill sure can’t because Dee Ford, who just got back from injury, will come in to take some snaps. He’s a dynamic pass rusher in his own right and O’Neill will have his work cut out for him. He’s going to have to play even better than he did a week ago against two elite pass rushers, who will be looking to destroy Kirk Cousins snap after snap.