3 bold predictions for Vikings 2022 season

Vikings bold predictions: Lead the league in takeaways

After eight seasons in the Twin Cities, veteran defensive coach Mike Zimmer was dismissed by the organization. Despite his team reaching the NFC title game in 2017, he was never able to lead the club to consecutive playoff appearances. The Vikings finished the past two seasons with a losing record.

Enter first-time NFL sideline leader Kevin O’Connell of the defending Super Bowl champion Los Angeles Rams. But it’s worth noting that the organization made another significant hiring in defensive coordinator Ed Donatell. His most recent stop came in Denver, where he spent the past three seasons under Vic Fangio. Before that, he was on the staff of the Chicago Bears.

Now the Vikings are hoping that the experienced defensive mind can solve the team’s recent issues on this side of the ball. There’s still talent here with veteran safety Harrison Smith as newcomers such as edge rusher Za’Darius Smith and sturdy inside linebacker Jordan Hicks. A year ago, Minnesota gave up the third-most total yards in the league.

Of course, if you can’t stop an opposing offense, the next best thing is to take away the football. The Vikings forced a respectable 24 turnovers in 2021. But that was 10 fewer than the Dallas Cowboys (34), who led the league in that category. Look for Donatell to help the club improve on that takeaway total.