The Minnesota Vikings are facing challenges in replicating the efficient run game of the Philadelphia Eagles. In their first two games of the season, the Vikings have only managed to gain a total of 69 rushing yards on 26 attempts, falling far short of their offseason goal to improve their run game.
Meanwhile, the Eagles demonstrated their prowess in the run game during their recent victory over the Vikings, gaining 259 rushing yards. This marked the most rushing yards against the Vikings since the New Orleans Saints’ Alvin Kamara ran for six touchdowns and 264 yards on Christmas Day in 2020. The Eagles achieved this feat through consistent and efficient plays rather than relying on big, explosive plays.
D’Andre Swift’s 43-yard run in the fourth quarter set up a crucial touchdown for the Eagles. While they did have a few other runs of 10 yards or more, most of their rushing attempts were characterized by methodical efficiency. Out of their 48 run attempts in the game, only one resulted in negative yardage. This performance showcased the type of run game that the Vikings had hoped to emulate but have struggled to achieve thus far.
Heading into his second season as head coach, Kevin O’Connell had placed a strong emphasis on improving the Vikings’ efficiency in the run game. The team made moves in the offseason, including signing tight end Josh Oliver to a lucrative contract and selecting Alexander Mattison as their primary running back based on his ability to consistently gain yards. The goal was to have more success on early downs, create favorable third-down situations, and utilize the passing game effectively with Kirk Cousins and receiver Justin Jefferson.
However, the Vikings have faced hurdles in implementing their new offensive strategy. In their first two games, they have been limited to just 26 rushing attempts and a mere 69 yards on the ground. This can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the team’s reluctance to take on imposing defensive fronts like those of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Philadelphia Eagles, as well as deficits that have forced them to abandon the run game.
Comparatively, among the 30 teams who have played only one game, 17 have more rushing attempts than the Vikings, and 26 have accumulated more rushing yards. This further highlights the team’s struggles in establishing a strong ground attack.
Coach O’Connell acknowledges the need for improvement in the run game and intends to explore different personnel groupings to gain an advantage. He emphasizes the importance of better connectivity among the offensive line and the ability to exploit favorable matchups against opposing defenses. The current formula of relying heavily on the passing game while neglecting the run is simply not sustainable for the team.
The Vikings’ run game struggles have had a significant impact on various aspects of their offense. In their most recent game, all nine of their rushing attempts were made on first down, with only seven designed run plays on second or third downs. This limited approach has made it challenging for the team to convert on key downs and sustain drives.
Additionally, turnovers have played a crucial role in the Vikings’ lackluster start to the season. They have accumulated seven turnovers in their first two games, which has greatly hindered their chances of securing victories. Despite this, running back Alexander Mattison has shown promise, with a 52.6% success rate on his 19 attempts this season.
Moving forward, the Vikings will need to address their offensive line, potentially considering other options to improve their run game. They hope to regain full strength on the line and utilize upcoming matchups against teams like the Los Angeles Chargers, who struggled against the run last season, as an opportunity to establish a more consistent ground attack.
Coach O’Connell remains confident in his team but acknowledges the necessity of making adjustments to enhance their run game. By focusing on improving their efficiency in the run game, the Vikings aim to strike a balance between the passing and rushing aspects of their offense and reclaim their winning form.
While the Eagles provided a blueprint for success with their run game, the Vikings have yet to find their footing. They need to reassess their approach, strengthen their foundations, and work together as a team to achieve their offensive objectives.
