Minnesota Vikings: Offense Should Be the Target, Defense Will Suffice

Here is a startling stat!

The 3-13 Vikings led all NFL teams in total sacks during 2011. With dominance like that along the defensive front it is a wonder that the team could not win more games.

One thing I noticed was that no defensive back could really control an interception; I assure you that the chances were many, but failure just as frequent. So finding some players who can be opportunistic is important and probably high on the priorities list for GM Rick Spielman.

However, where the defense has a ways to go in being a formidable unit again, the offense is much closer to greatness than many may realize.

Before you get in a tizzy about the defensive backfield for Minnesota, let me point out one thing. The AFC's best team, New England. And the NFC's best team, Green Bay. Ranked 31st and 32nd in total pass defense this year. (That is worse than the Vikings were, FYI). The Saints also were one of the worst pass coverage teams over the season.

What these three teams have in common, along with the majority of the higher seeded playoff teams is a prolific offense.

Thus, I submit that if the Vikings want to be competitive next season they should focus on finishing off what is already a promising offensive unit. Surrounding the $100 million man and the versatile Percy Harvin with fellow stars could prove to be the difference between 3-13 and 13-3. (Extreme example, but you get my meaning).

The free-agent pool for offensive guard this year has a couple of nice names in it. And the receivers pool as well. Should the Vikings choose to focus their effort, and money, on landing a lineman and wideout during free agency they could set themselves up to take a lineman (Matt Kalil?) and a receiver (Mohammad Sanu?) in the first two rounds also.

This would create an offensive line that could control the line of scrimmage. A running back already in place, who needs no introduction, to control the game clock. And a young franchise quarterback with a deep collection of elite and explosive receivers to keep pace with any Green Bay or Detroit teams.

For those who disagree with this method, think about it. The two best teams can't play defense and still win. They have strong O-lines and a deep collection of receivers and tight ends. And both quarterbacks are great within their systems.  

Putting up points to cover for a shady defensive backfield would not be a problem for this metaphorical offense. And creating passing situations all game for the best pass-rush team in football seems like a prudent plan also.