The only thing that can prevent Josh Dobbs from succeeding as the starting quarterback in Minnesota is himself. Assuming he’s the starting quarterback over Jaren Hall and Nick Mullens in due time, there’s no reason he can’t lead the Vikings on a playoff run as long as he takes care of the ball.
Dobbs, known for his brains, actually has quite a bit of braun to his game. Not only has he passed for eight touchdowns to five interceptions in eight starts with the ratty Arizona Cardinals this season, he’s also been one of the league’s top running quarterbacks.
When is the last time the Vikings could say they had a dual-threat QB? You have to go all the way back to Daunte Culpepper for a quarterback in Minnesota who was a threat to leave the pocket and pick up a first down with his legs.
Dobbs is that guy. In fact, his 280 rushing yards ranks third among quarterbacks this season, trailing only Lamar Jackson (380 rush yards) and Jalen Hurts (280). What’s more is that Dobbs has been explosive when he decides to run. His five runs of at least 20 yards is second most in the NFL this season, with only Miami’s De’Von Achane and Indy’s Zack Moss having more explosive runs – and they each have six.
Dobbs will likely be inserted to a lineup in which he’s surrounded by talented players who could make his life as a starter easier than any other opportunity he’s had before.
In Minnesota, Dobbs will be protected by an offensive line that Pro Football Focus ranks third in pass blocking and sixth in run blocking. The playmakers around him are among the best in the game, with all-world wide receiver Justin Jefferson back from injury perhaps as soon as Week 10, along with Jordan Addison, K.J. Osborn and T.J. Hockenson.
What’s more is that Dobbs can acclimate himself to Kevin O’Connell’s offense against weaker competition. Minnesota’s faces Atlanta (4-4) this week before games against the Saints (4-4), Broncos (3-5), Bears (2-6) and Raiders (3-5).
With the Cardinals, Dobbs had a below average offensive line protecting him and he was throwing the ball to the likes of Marquise Brown, rookie Michael Wilson, and Rondale Moore.
Dobbs made two starts with the Titans last season and the first came on short rest on a Thursday night against the Cowboys and then the Week 18 game in Jacksonville. Tennessee’s offensive line ranked dead last (32nd) in pass blocking last season, according to PFF.
That’s a total of 10 career starts since turning pro in 2017.
