The Vikings’ bye week presents a decision about their quarterback. Although head coach Kevin O’Connell has not ruled out a change at center, Josh Dobbs staying in the starting lineup for the time being would not be shocking.
To address Kirk Cousins’ Achilles tendon injury, Dobbs was acquired through trade. Although it was not anticipated that the former would play right away, Dobbs was compelled to play when rookie Jaren Hall sustained a concussion. Since then, he has maintained the top spot because to Nick Mullens’s absence and his unexpectedly good performance in his first two appearances, both of which resulted in victories.
But now that all three passers are fit, Dobbs’ performance has declined over the last two games. The Vikings’ close losses to the Broncos and Bears were mostly due to turnovers, so it would make sense to make a change during the bye week. O’Connell announced earlier this week that the team’s starter for at least Week 14 will be determined by an evaluation that takes place during Minnesota’s bye week.
Though there are still many unanswered questions, Dianna Russini of the Athletic reports that Dobbs is now in a position to receive the nod (subscription required). Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune adds practice reps in the upcoming week, expressing a similar sentiment.
Sitting at 6-6, the Vikings are firmly within the NFC Wild-Card race despite Cousins being lost for the year. There will thus be plenty at stake for the stretch run and specifically for whichever passer lands the No. 1 job to close out the season. Dobbs may have the inside track for the time being, but the in-season competition set to take place in the coming days will be worth watching closely
