4 keys to victory for the Vikings against the Colts in Week 2
By Dean Jones
Find a way past the Colts offensive line
The lack of pressure generated by the Minnesota Vikings’ defensive front against the Packers was extremely disappointing. They were without the services of stud pass-rusher Danielle Hunter. But much more was expected of a talented group in their season opener.
Their task is not going to get any easier against the Colts, who boast arguably the NFL’s best offensive line. Getting around them is going to be a mammoth proposition. But it is a problem the Vikings must find a solution to if they want to pick up their first victory of the campaign.
Minnesota did not part ways with two draft picks for the performance Yannick Ngakoue gave them on his debut. The edge rusher said that his lack of production “left a sour taste in the mouth” and he must learn to live with extra attention for as long as Hunter remains on injured/reserve.
Ifeadi Odenigbo was also virtually anonymous from a starting position. This was further reflected in his lowly 45.2 grade from Pro Football Focus and the player will not want this opportunity of filling in for Hunter to pass him by for much longer.
Another player who simply failed to deliver was Anthony Barr. The outside linebacker’s name was called prominently on blitz packages with no pressures to show for it and this only heightened concerns surrounding his long-term future with the organization.
The Colts’ protection is explosive and aggressive in equal measure and in Quenton Nelson, they possess one of the best guards in the business.