Our (future?) offensive line.
by iseepurplepeople on Aug 13, 2009 12:28 PM CDT
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Just read an interesting article: http://www.twincities.com/sports/ci_13046891?source=rss
The last section on the offensive line caught my attention the most:
OFFENSIVE LINE JON COOPER VS. BRIAN DANIELS, CHRIS CLARK AND DREW RADOVICH
Former Oklahoma tackle Phil Loadholt was a second-round draft pick. But ex-Oklahoma center Jon Cooper, right, who went undrafted, was the Big 12 offensive lineman of the year in 2008. Neither of the linemen from last year's top-scoring offense have been a disappointment. Cooper has impressed the Vikings with his quickness and intelligence, and he will be watched closely Friday against the Colts. In addition to the starters, veterans Artis Hicks and Ryan Cook likely have spots locked up because of their versatility, which would leave one more spot. Daniels and Clark have potential, but Cooper really could help himself if he can swing to guard, as he did in his college career.
I wasn't aware of Jon Cooper. The Big 12 offensive lineman of the year and he went undrafted? He won the honor in spite of playing with Loadholt who we took in the 2nd round. Guys like this have a way of making a name for themselves in the league.
Could we be looking at a future starter? If he could quickly make the transition to guard and oust Herrera (who is a decent guard) we might be looking at a truly dominant line in 2011. Everything I've read/seen so far (and I know it's early) point to Sullivan and Loadholt being ready for the regular season and Loadholt at least being an upgrade over last year.
This to me is really big news. Every facet of our offense could benefit if early indications pan out. Then we'd have the luxury of drafting a good left tackle and/or left guard to eventually replace Mac and Hutch who have quickly become the elder statesman of our line (and they aren't that old!).
The jury is still out and much must be proven. Hopefully we've got a steal of an undrafted free agent on our hands. *
*Disclaimer. All opinions expressed in this post are based on the premise that the Vikings beat writers know what they're talking about.
This FanPost was created by a registered user of The Daily Norseman, and does not necessarily reflect the views of the staff of the site. However, since this is a community, that view is no less important.
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Sounds good to me!
I’ll take a page from Tarvaris’ book and say that we know they (O-Line) can run block. They’ve proven that, but can they pass block on a consistent basis? Even when the D knows we’re passing? That is the question. :D
Jon Cooper could be more like Greg Eslinger
…won the Outland Trophy and the Rimington Trophy during his senior year. He was drafted by the Broncos (who use the same sort of zone blocking) in the 6th round of 2006, yet he hasn’t been anything more than a practice squad guy so far.
Of course I’d like to see Cooper play well and help the team more, but college awards don’t always translate to NFL success.
this is true
the part about him impressing the coaches caught my eye in particular. this was just me conjecturing. i’m optomistic about loadholt and sullivan filling in and doing well which will, in my opinion, leave herrera as our weak link on the o-line. if we may possibly have a potential upgrade already on the team, how awesome would that be?
by iseepurplepeople on Aug 14, 2009 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions
Truly Dominant Offensive Line!
That’s what you have when the QB can take the hike and spend 15 seconds scanning receivers from inside a solid pocket that’s not collapsing around him. When I see the Vikings regularly doing that, I’ll believe the O-line is ‘dominant’ and ‘elite’. Until then, I think they need more help.
See: Patriots, New England
Ah, ah,
We come from the land of the ice and snow,
From the midnight sun where the hot springs blow.
The hammer of the gods will drive our ships to new lands,
To fight the horde, singing and crying: Valhalla, I am coming!
SKOL!
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