4 silver linings from the Vikings 0-2 start to the 2021 season

Minnesota’s offensive line played well

The Vikings’ offensive line was coming off a poor performance against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1. Minnesota’s interior blockers were getting pushed back by the Bengals’ defensive tackles, and Rashod Hill struggled to keep the pass rush away from Kirk Cousins.

The Vikings’ run game was basically nonexistent also as Dalvin Cook plodded his way to about 60 rushing yards on the day. Minnesota’s offensive line also had a plethora of penalties against Cincinnati and they were overall nothing short of an embarrassment.

With the game against the Cardinals on the horizon, many feared the worst. Chandler Jones was coming off a five-sack performance against the Tennessee Titans and it was assumed he and J.J. Watt would feast against Hill and his youthful companions. In a shocking turn of events, Minnesota’s offensive line played a very good game in Week 2.

Cousins had plenty of time in the pocket and he was able to throw for 244 yards and three touchdowns. Cook also had ample running room, scampering for 131 yards on the day for an average of six yards per carry.

At one point, Vikings right guard Oli Udoh even pancaked Watt. Who would’ve thought that would be something we’d say after the first week of the season?

Minnesota’s offensive line was definitely helped out by offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak making Cousins do short dropbacks and getting the ball out quickly. While that was a benefit, their improved performance was definitely encouraging and something they can build off of as they prepare for Seattle.