First and foremost, the Vikings lined up in the shotgun formation 54 times Sunday, the most in a game since O’Connell was hired in 2022.
Minnesota ran the ball 18 times out of those shotgun sets, a significant jump from any of O’Connell’s previous games as a play caller. On an even deeper level, the Vikings sprinkled in pocket movement on third downs. They also utilized staple passing concepts.... The potential answers to these questions come with major ramifications. More shotgun sets might affect an already struggling run game. Fewer downfield pass attempts could shrink an already concerning lack of explosiveness. None of this will get any easier with left guard Donovan Jackson’s torn meniscus or left tackle Christian Darrisaw’s concussion.
Art Stapleton·
Beckham Jr. has handled a surprisingly large workload without showing health limitations. He has taken as many practice reps as any receiver on the roster, lined up in multiple locations and run a varied route tree. Beckham has also continued catching passes from both Jackson Dart and Jameis Winston. His speed has remained evident, and his ability to stay on the field throughout camp has kept him competitive with the other receivers fighting for roster spots.
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