New Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell's impressive 2021 season with the Rams

What is unique about first-year Vikings Head Coach Kevin O'Connell is that he was both a player and coach in the NFL. He has certainly brought the knowledge he gained as a backup quarterback into his coaching experiences. His most impressive coaching campaign came last season with the Super Bowl champion Los Angeles Rams. 

As offensive coordinator, O'Connell helped the Rams offense finish fifth in passing offense, eighth in scoring offense and ninth in total offense. 

His Pro Bowl quarterback, Matthew Stafford, finished third in passing yards (4,886). Receiver Cooper Kupp became a First-Team All-Pro while leading the league in receiving yards (1,947) and receiving touchdowns (16). Running backs Sony Michel and Darrell Henderson Jr. combined for 1,533 rushing yards. 

What O'Connell doesn't get enough credit for is helping mid-season signing Odell Beckham Jr. get integrated into the offense. Beckham caught 27 passes for 305 yards and five touchdowns in seven games after signing with the Rams. He was an even bigger force in the postseason as he caught 21 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns. O'Connell's ability to guide a Super Bowl offense in year one with Matthew Stafford was really impressive, and it is a big reason why he is now leading the Vikings.

Speaking of the Vikings, O'Connell has another talented offense at his disposal. He has another Pro Bowl quarterback in Kirk Cousins, who he also coached in Washington. His backfield is led by three-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook. He also has two Pro Bowl receivers in Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen. It is safe to say Vikings fans should be very excited about the knowledge and experience that O'Connell brings to their team.