The Vikings offensive line took a step forward in 2012. The unit along with FB Jerome Felton helped Adrian Peterson rush for a near recording breaking 2,097 yards.
According to the rankings by ProFootballFocus.com this unit is rated number 9 overall in the NFL.
The Vikings weak links seem to be at either guard with Charlie Johnson and Brandon Fusco struggling in pass protection for much of the season.
Continuity along the offensive line is paramount in the NFL which would make cutting one of the guards a difficult decision but ultimately may be necessary.
Here is the full breakdown by PFF:
9. Minnesota Vikings (7)
PB – 13th, RB – 6th, PEN – 8th
Stud: It might not be the coolest thing to say, but there’s no denying that over the past two years the best center in the league has been John Sullivan (+27.3).
Dud: The Vikings made a big mistake in keeping Brandon Fusco (-11.8) in the starting lineup when they had better options on the bench.
Summary: The only criticism of this line is that Geoff Schwartz didn’t get nearly enough playing time. That aside, what more could you want from this line? They kept their quarterback upright, and in Sullivan and Phil Loadholt they have two of the most punishing run blockers in the league at their positions. Trending upwards, with rookie left tackle Matt Kalil being exactly as advertised.
https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2013/01/28/ranking-the-2012-offensive-lines/3/
