Vikings assistant sends firm message to the roster that should fire them up
Training camp may be focused on the quarterback competition, but it’s how the back end of the roster shapes up that matters more than you think.
The Minnesota Vikings have begun training camp, and the quarterback competition between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy is in full swing.
There will be a lot of focus on that competition, and for good reason. The quarterback position is the most impactful on the outcome of a specific game. Simply put, that’s true, but the back end of the roster and special teamers are the heart and soul of the franchise.
Special teams coordinator Matt Daniels lays out a challenge
We honestly don’t appreciate special teams nearly enough, nor do we give credit to how it can change the course of a game. One missed lane or tackle could change everything, even costing you a win.
Special teams coordinator Matt Daniels knows that all too well, as many will point to a missed assignment on the final kickoff against the Chicago Bears that cost the Vikings, not only a playoff spot, but possibly the NFC North.
One of the more difficult aspects about training camp, especially with special teams, is the lack of reps, and that can make it hard for rookies trying to get into a routine.
“Quite frankly, you probably won’t get as many reps, but you’re required to know what to do, how to do it, and go out and execute when you do get your opportunity. Again, it’s not my job to play you; it’s your job to make me play you. And so you know you got to be so good that they can’t deny you,” said Daniels.
Those little details matter, and that knowledge is crucial to succeeding in those roles. Daniels also mentioned one other thing when getting acclimated to the NFL: figuring out your routine.
“Coming in as an undrafted guy, it takes a lot, the preparation, locking on into the right veterans to figure out what a routine looks like. It’s a lot of things going on. It’s happening really, really fast. So, how how how equipped are you to latch on to the day-to-day routine and really figure it out and really maximize each and every rep that you do get?” said Daniels.
The little details matter and will be crucial to figuring out who will make the back end of the roster.
