On Wednesday, coach Kevin O’Connell revealed that the Minnesota Vikings will keep quarterback Josh Dobbs for at least one more week. Despite committed six turnovers in the last two games, Dobbs is expected to start against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday. During the bye week, O’Connell assessed Dobbs’ performance across four games and considered using backup Nick Mullens or third-string quarterback Jaren Hall. However, O’Connell finally decided to make more bold changes to the Vikings’ offensive plan in order to better match Dobbs’ abilities.
“We’ve been in the process of providing him with clarity on our offensive approach, and we’re learning a lot about each other as we go,” O’Connell said. He stressed the need of knowing Dobbs’ capabilities and mentioned the constant endeavor to assist him in becoming the best version of himself. O’Connell expressed trust in the team’s dedication to improving each other’s abilities and assisting Dobbs in reaching long-term success.
Dobbs later addressed reporters, acknowledging planned changes to the Vikings’ offense but emphasizing that any changes would be minimal. He emphasized the discussions he had with O’Connell over the bye week, including a one-on-one film session, to customize the offensive system to his skills. For success, Dobbs emphasized the need of focusing on what the team does well, protecting the football, and executing routine plays.
Kirk Cousins, the Vikings’ seasoned pocket passer, led the team in touchdown passes and passing yards before suffering a season-ending Achilles tendon rupture in Week 8. Dobbs was acquired from the Arizona Cardinals on October 31 to back up Hall when Mullens was on injured reserve with a back ailment. Dobbs took over when Hall suffered a concussion in his first start and has played a key part in the team’s last four games.
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O’Connell would not disclose specifics about the schematic alterations, but he did hint at potential modifications, such as less dependence on timing-based throwing patterns that Cousins had learned over two years of practice in O’Connell’s offense. Regardless of the specifics, receiver Justin Jefferson’s return on Sunday after missing seven games due to a right hamstring injury is expected to strengthen the offensive plan.
