Vikings HC Kevin O'Connell poised to bring consistency to Minnesota

The Minnesota Vikings made the not-so-surprising move to relieve former head coach Mike Zimmer of his duties earlier this offseason. 

Zimmer finished his eight-year coaching stint in Minnesota with record of 74-59-1. In a division with Aaron Rodgers, Matthew Stafford and an occassional tough Chicago Bears defense, that is a pretty good job. But "pretty good" can only take a coach so far in this business. Although Zimmer finished with a winning record, he only took the Vikings to the playoffs just three times in his eight years. Especially with Minnesota's roster in recent years, they should have been more consistent.

Consistency is now the goal of current Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell, who was introduced as the head man after the Los Angeles Rams won the Super Bowl. O'Connell was the offensive coordinator on Sean McVay's staff in Los Angeles. A case could certainly be made for Minnesota being the most talented team that was looking for a new head coach. O'Connell is reuniting with his former quarterback Kirk Cousins, who he coached in Washington in 2017.  

Cousins, a three-time Pro Bowl selection, is the leader of a very talented roster. Dalvin Cook is a three-time Pro-Bowler, too. Pro Bowl receivers Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen are a dangerous combo. O'Connell has a lot to work with offensively. 

On the defensive side, Minnesota has veterans at every level. Pass rushers Za'Darius Smith and Danielle Hunter, linebacker Eric Kendricks and safety Harrison Smith are all established stars.

Yes, Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers are still the kings of the NFC North, but the Bears and Detroit Lions are two rebuilding franchises that are still trying to find their way. It would be very surprising if Minnesota does not finish with at least 10 wins, especially with their talent and experience. Remember, the Vikings are looking for consistency as a franchise. This means more playoff appearances, more success and a Super Bowl. O'Connell is going to attempt to lead this team into the future with a new collaborative culture set in place.