7 biggest takeaways from the Vikings win vs. Commanders in Week 9
By Adam Carlson
Losing the battle in the trenches when on offense
Kirk Cousins may have only been sacked twice during the game, but that number doesn’t accurately represent the pressure the Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback felt from the front line of the Washington defense.
Center Garrett Bradbury was in injured during the game but returned to action and right guard Ed Ingram struggled mightily. Even Ezra Cleveland couldn’t seem to contain the rush from the Commanders’ big defensive linemen.
Dalvin Cook only averaged 2.8 yards per carry with his longest run of the day going for nine yards, which is hugely disappointing for a weapon of his caliber. Three rushing first downs isn’t going to help an offense be balanced.
The Vikings will need to either scheme for protection for their quarterback or change personnel since C.J. Ham seemed MIA on Sunday after being a big part of the run game in previous weeks. Figuring out blocking could be the biggest factor in how far this team can go.