Vikings centers Pat Elflein, Nick Easton asked to get up to speed
Vikings would like a starter to emerge quickly in competition between Elflein, Easton
MANKATO – Vikings rookie center Pat Elflein has a few seconds to boil down hours of playbook study. The hand of 329-pound Linval Joseph is stamped in the dirt across the line. An $18 million quarterback waits on him.
Who’s the middle linebacker? What protection adjustment is needed based on the play call and one of the defense’s frenzied looks? Making the right calls — and loudly enough — will help decide whether or not the third-round pick can compete with incumbent Nick Easton for the center job, which is a key opening remaining in the retooled Vikings offensive line.
There’s no time to waste, according to offensive line coach Tony Sparano.
“You really want to get that body in as soon as possible,” Sparano said. “I think the longer a center position competition goes, as opposed to maybe some other competitions within the line, you know, that can cause confusion.
“There’s no real timetable,” he added. “We just know it’s got to happen fast.”
The clock is ticking. Elflein, swapping first-team series with Easton during Saturday’s first padded practice of training camp, makes a late change. Turning his head left and right, he shouts the new call...
http://www.startribune.com/vikings-centers-pat-elflein-nick-easton-asked-to-get-up-to-speed/437415933/#1
Hurry-up Vikings, we ain't getting any younger!
I watched th oline a fair bit, but I didn't see beavers which means he didn't stand out good or bad enough to be memorable....kind of what I would expect from a backup player.
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