Oli Udoh, once again, outplays Dakota DozierFor the entirety of training camp, the Vikings had Oli Udoh and Dakota Dozier split reps at right guard with the first-team offensive line. In this humble observer's opinion, the competition there isn't even close. Frankly, there isn't one. The job needs to be Udoh's.
The third-year converted tackle was one of the biggest breakout stars of this year's camp, along with K.J. Osborn and Browning. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism appear to translate very nicely at guard. All camp long, Udoh made things happen in the run game, pass protected well, and won most of his 1-on-1s.
Dozier had some solid moments, but on the whole, he wasn't nearly as good. Plus, there's an entire 16-game season of tape that tells you the veteran was one of the worst offensive linemen in the NFL last season. Why go back to that well when Udoh offers a higher floor and ceiling?
The trend continued on Thursday. Dalvin Cook broke off a few nice runs towards the right side, with Udoh and Brian O'Neill opening up lanes. Dozier was driven back in the pocket far more frequently than Udoh was.