It’s no surprise that journeyman quarterback Josh Dobbs re-entered the atmosphere. Players are backups for a reason, and it was only a matter of time before Dobbs reminded folks why he was available multiple times this season. What is a surprise about this current predicament is after the Vikings used assets for the short-term loaner, coach Kevin O’Connell is already non-committal after three starts.
That probably says more about Minnesota GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah than O’Connell, but let’s stick with the coach for a tick. With All-Pro receiver Jordan Jefferson set to return after the bye week, O’Connell said who starts under center depends on their ability to maximize Jefferson.
“Justin’s role in our offense, really from Day 1 since we arrived here, has always been very, very significant,” O’Connell said. “Anytime you can infuse the best receiver in football back into your offense, there’s going to be ways to not only get Justin going and make sure he has a critical impact on the football game … [and] the quarterback position absolutely plays into that.
“We’re going to make sure that whoever is playing quarterback is aware and understands the intent behind plays where either Justin is the primary [target], or based upon coverage, based upon the defensive look, how to quickly and efficiently get to the right place to go with the football. In the end that’s what the NFL passing game is about: rhythm, timing, understanding that the defense can and will take some things away, but progressing in rhythm.”
