Minnesota Vikings running back Jordan Mason (27) runs the ball against Green Bay Packers cornerback Trevon Diggs (28) during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images
The majority of reports regarding the Minnesota Vikings at the start of training camp have involved the competition at quarterback between newcomer Kyler Murray and third-year QB J.J. McCarthy. That remains an important part of what will happen in the coming weeks, but a new-look running game may be just as vital to the team's success in the upcoming season.
The Vikings will always want to get the ball to superstar wide receiver Justin Jefferson because he is their most dangerous big-play performer on the roster. However, when Vikings opponents are playing against two-high safety defenses, it will be about employing a new-look running game that attacks with speed.
The scheme change the Vikings are making is similar to what the Minnesota Timberwolves are doing with the acquisition of LaMelo Ball. He should be more successful in getting the ball to dynamic Anthony Edwards, and the new-look running game will help the Vikings make more big plays to Jefferson.
Left tackle Christian Darrisaw explained how much quicker the running game will be for Jordan Mason and Aaron Jones as a result of a change in the Vikings blocking schemes.
“There were times in the past where we weren’t running off the ball,” Darrisaw said, per Alec Lewis of The Athletic. “We were thinking more. Now, it’s just full speed. Let’s go move the line of scrimmage and see what happens.”
O'Connell has regularly stressed improving Minnesota's running game since he became head coach in 2022. The Vikings ranked 23rd in rushing last year, averaging 108.3 yards per game. The new look could allow them to reach the top half of the league if it is successful.