4 scapegoats if things go wrong for the Vikings in 2022 playoffs
By Dean Jones
Vikings offensive line
After starting the season off tremendously, things are quickly unraveling for the Minnesota Vikings offensive line. This is thanks in no small part to injuries at key positions, which disintegrated any momentum generated earlier in the campaign.
The biggest of these is Brian O’Neill. One of the best right tackles in the business won’t be available for the playoffs and way beyond after a serious complication emerged down the stretch, which is a body blow to Minnesota and its chances of securing an elusive Super Bowl.
While Garrett Bradbury’s form since joining the Vikings is inconsistent, the center demonstrated real growth when on the field this season. If he’s also ruled out for postseason engagements, it’s another major complication the team must overcome.
Fortunately, stud left tackle Christian Darrisaw looks ready to roll. The former first-round selection is quickly emerging into a franchise-caliber presence on the blindside after a frustrating rookie season, so he’ll be tasked with bit-time responsibilities when tasked with thwarting the severe threat posed by New York Giants edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux.
Should the Vikings lose, then the offensive line becomes an easy target. This under-strength group must come together to ensure such a scenario doesn’t come to fruition.