Post by Will on Apr 27, 2021 8:41:03 GMT -6
Are the Vikings a sleeper team? I think they are asleep at the helm.
Years of underinvesting in the offensive line and not developing linemen have prevented the Vikings from contending with the best teams. Even the Chiefs with their skill players on offense could not beat the Bucs without their offensive tackles. Without solid pass protection on 3rd down, the Vikings will not contend. They need two more good linemen and they need improvement from Cleveland and Bradbury.
And now that the Defense has turned over, it is being rebuilt too. With all of the new faces and uncertainty at DE, the defense could be good or it could struggle. It does not look like it can be elite in 2021.
It is hard to build an elite defense, have great skill players on offense, and have an offensive line that does not get run over by elite defenders. Are the Vikings' leaders up to the challenge? You made a good case that they are asleep.
Was the Peterson acquisition a good one? Only if he plays well and helps other corners develop. Not if that acquisition leaves the Vikings with a weak offensive line or a weak pass rush.
Teams become contenders when many things come together, and this year does not look good unless existing players develop, they add some key free agents, and they have a great draft. While it is possible for this to happen, it is not likely. I like to be optimistic about the Vikings at this time of year, and I like to be realistic about what they need to contend. Right now, realism wins over optimism.
... and neither is this Chris guy.