4 ambitious goals for the Minnesota Vikings in 2022
By Dean Jones
Average 3.5 sacks per game
Considering the Vikings only had Danielle Hunter for seven games last season, for the defense to achieve three sacks per game was encouraging. This was an area that Mike Zimmer always prided himself on during his stint as head coach and although it wasn’t enough, some tinkering could see this unit reach new heights next time around.
It’s been well documented that new defensive coordinator Ed Donatell is switching to a 3-4 base scheme. The Vikings also secured the services of Za’Darius Smith from the Green Bay Packers in free agency, which provides them with a dynamic edge tandem to build around.
Obviously, the problem isn’t production where Smith and Hunter are concerned. Keeping them healthy is the biggest concern based on recent history.
If the Vikings can get a solid run of games out of the veteran duo and the likes of Dalvin Tomlinson and Harrison Phillips also put up the numbers expected, then attaining 3.5 sacks per game might not be too far-fetched.
This feat has not been achieved since the Denver Broncos in 2015. But if the Vikings’ new system clicks immediately and this target is reached, then it could be the catalyst behind a deep postseason run along the way.