3 biggest disappointments from the Vikings preseason loss to the Titans

Player No. 2

Oli Udoh - OT

Another massive disappointment throughout the night was the performance of the Vikings' offensive line. While the entire group could be included on this list, Oli Udoh was the one veteran name that struggled throughout the evening.

Udoh’s struggles popped up in the second quarter when he was called for an illegal hands-to-the-face penalty that wiped out a 19-yard reception by Trishton Jackson. Udoh was called for another penalty later in the drive when a holding call forced the Vikings to settle for a 45-yard field goal from Greg Joseph.

Even though both penalties were declined, Udoh’s struggles continued as he allowed two of Tennessee’s three sacks on the night.

The Vikings are returning every starter across the line since 2012, but it’s hard to consider that good news when Ed Ingram and Ezra Cleveland were first and third in quarterback pressures, Garrett Bradbury still ranked sixth among centers in that category, and Brian O’Neill is working his way back from a partially torn Achilles tendon.

Even then, those are concerns if the Vikings stay healthy. The Vikings learned about their depth the hard way a season ago when Bradbury suffered a back injury, his backup Austin Schlottman broke his ankle, and used Chris Reed at center despite never taking a single snap at that position.

O’Connell stressed the need to play “clean football” after the game, but that might prove difficult if Udoh has to come into a game. Udoh’s veteran status likely will give him a spot on the team, but he looks like the same player heading into year four.