5 Bold Predictions: Minnesota Vikings vs. Denver Broncos – Preseason Week 1
By Chris Schad
Hill could win (or lose) the starting left tackle spot on Saturday
When the Vikings selected Christian Darrisaw and Wyatt Davis in the NFL Draft, there was a sense of security with the offensive line. Two weeks into training camp, a scenario where both are in the starting lineup doesn’t appear to be realistic.
Darrisaw underwent surgery on Thursday to repair a groin injury that has lingered since January and Davis has struggled to get second-team snaps as the Vikings have chosen to ease him in.
The Vikings believe they have a solid contingency plan with Rashod Hill, but the veteran has had a rough training camp. Although NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero said the Vikings believe Darrisaw will be ready for Week 1, it’s hard to believe that Zimmer would put a rookie into the starting lineup with limited practice reps.
That leaves a huge test for Hill against Vic Fangio’s defense. While Von Miller and Bradley Chubb likely won’t play much, the Broncos ranked ninth in the NFL last season with 42 sacks and could bring some pressure against a shaky offensive line.
With a gauntlet of pass rushers in the opening month, Hill will have to be on his game or be replaced by a free agent.