5 biggest takeaways from Vikings vs. Bengals in Week 1
By Adam Carlson
The offensive line needs help
This was a brutal game to watch. Rashod Hill struggled mightily against Trey Hendrickson throughout the entire game, putting pressure on quarterback Kirk Cousins early and often. As Minnesota attempted to execute its offensive plan, it continually dealt with disruption.
The problems weren’t just with the backup left tackle. Frustration ran through the entire Vikings offensive line with every player seemingly getting flagged for a penalty or allowing pressure or sack on the quarterback.
Fans need to hope that Christian Darrisaw can return soon and be the pass blocker that he was at the college level. If he can do that, it should immediately upgrade the entire line and help out Cousins as well as running back Dalvin Cook.
The way it stands, the Minnesota Vikings will likely be bullied in the trenches by most teams they face this season until they can gel as a cohesive unit. Until then, the coaching staff will need to figure out another way for Cousins to find time to complete his passes.