With Vikings center John Sullivan out for at least eight weeks after back surgery, the team is now going to rely on versatile offensive lineman Joe Berger to step in and perform the gigantic task of trying to replace one of the best centers in the NFL.
The loss of the former sixth-round draft choice out of Notre Dame in 2008 is a big blow. Berger, who was a sixth-round pick by the Carolina Panthers out of Michigan Tech in 2005, has started 38 games entering his 11th year in the NFL, and last season he started nine games at right guard when Brandon Fusco went out because of a torn pectoral muscle. This will be a different experience for Berger, but he believes he's ready.
"It's different stepping in there at center when I'm used to playing guard," he said. "Sully does a lot for the guys as far as [blocking-scheme] calls and stuff like that, so trying to fill that spot, there's big shoes to fill."
Berger has played some center during the preseason and he talked about the nature of switching positions along the offensive line.
"When you get used to one spot, it's a little difficult to switch," he said. "It takes a little bit to get used to the technique differences. I think guard and center are different in that guard is a little more physical and center is a little more mental."
No limitations
Offensive coordinator Norv Turner talked this week about how offensive linemen have to be able to move from position to position. That versatility will be tested early this season.
"There are no limitations," Turner said. "We're asking a lot of those guys, as I've said. I think we've gotten better, a lot better, on the left side. Those guys [Fusco, who moved from right guard to left guard, and tackle Matt Kalil] are veteran guys, they're comfortable with each other. I think we've improved on our left side. We're making progress every day on the right side.
"Obviously we have a position-change guy [Mike Harris going from tackle to right guard] and a young guy [rookie right tackle T.J. Clemmings], but they've responded. We did a good job of protecting the quarterback in the preseason, we need to continue to do that and be able to run the ball."