In this episode of The Real Forno Show, Tyler Forness provides insight into Ed Ingram’s performance against the Cleveland Browns and refutes the negative PFF grades with detailed analysis. The show also delves into Tua Tagovailoa’s critical comments about former coach Brian Flores and examines the impact on their respective careers.
Forness begins with the question: “Was Ed Ingram really that bad against the Cleveland Browns? If you look at the Focus on professional football (PFF) grades, you would immediately think he was awful and maybe shouldn’t even play for the Minnesota Vikings. But what does the film actually say? Does it paint a different picture?”
Let’s find out.
Ed Ingram vs. PFF: The Analysis
Setting the stage
We must first address the obvious: PFF. PFF’s concept is sound and their intentions are undoubtedly pure. However, one must take a close look at the methodology used to evaluate players, particularly offensive linemen. Recently, PFF’s ratings suggested that Ed Ingram was significantly underperforming. But generally — analysts, fans and even some professionals — there is disagreement. Forness wants to address those discrepancies.
PFF’s problems with Ed Ingram
- Pass Blocking Ratings: PFF credited Ingram with two pressures on 13 pass blocking reps. One particular stunt involved both Ingram and David Quessenberry, which was ruled a miscommunication and PFF may view as Ingram’s fault.
- Questionable judgments: It’s obvious that not all of the replays that showed pressure were correct. For example, Ingram did the right thing by picking the player furthest inside – a basic rule in pass protection – and blocking him. Yet somehow it was still considered pressure.
Analysis of important moves
The Blitz Game
A key play was a blitz that pitted four defenders against three offensive players. Ingram took the halfback, as he should have, leaving Kene Nwangwu to miss his assignment. Nick Mullens still threw a first down pass. Was that pressure really Ingram’s fault?
The stunt with Michael Jürgens
On another play, Ingram pushed a defender into Michael Jurgens, who then collapsed. Ingram promptly handled another defender. The scoring rule here and the general understanding seem to be ambiguous. Does PFF count the quarterback’s movement or an imperfect pocket as pressure on the linemen?
Techniques and playing styles of the offensive line
Assessing depth when blocking
Ingram often uses depth in his blocks to better anchor himself and gain an advantage, but PFF’s rules can sometimes be misleading.
Hitting vs. Driving: Ingram’s style is similar to Mike Tyson’s boxing – direct and hard, which can leave him exposed at times but often produces effective results. This is different from the holds and drives style, which is similar to Trent Williams.
Analyze running plays: On many plays, including one where he chipped the ball and reached the second level, the running back was unable to properly utilize his block. The lack of proper technique or understanding on the part of the running backs does not reflect poorly on Ingram’s ability.
A bigger perspective
The overall analysis showed that, aside from the discussed stunt with Quessenberry, Ingram has not had a single repeat win. His consistent repeat wins call his poor PFF grades into question.
Luke Braun of Locked On Vikings summed it up perfectly: “Are you mad because you thought Ed Ingram played poorly or because PFF said so?” This brings up the need for personal observation rather than blind trust in PFF’s assessments.
Tua Tagovailoa’s insightful comments on Brian Flores
Now, moving on to another hot topic: Tua Tagovailoa’s comments about Brian Flores have sparked a lot of discussion. On the Dan Le Batard Show, Tua openly expressed his feelings about working under Flores and compared them to his experiences with current head coach Mike McDaniel.
Comparison of coaching styles
Tua explained, “If you woke up every morning and I told you you suck… and then someone came along and told you, buddy, you’re best suited for this… how would you feel if you listened to one or the other?” This highlights the stark contrast between Flores’ antagonistic approach and McDaniel’s encouraging style.
While there are three sides to every story – yours, mine and the truth – this illustrates how the training style must match the needs of the players. Flores’ tough style, which comes from the pedigree of Bill Belichick, might seem harsh in modern NFL environments where players often respond better to positive reinforcement.
Kevin O’Connell’s balanced approach
When asked about Tua’s comments, Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell responded, “I know the players that Flores works with. He has great relationships here. That’s all I can really say.” O’Connell’s balanced, politically correct response reflects his understanding that successful coaching today requires both tough love and encouragement.
Conclusion: What awaits us
The Vikings are at a crossroads and have a chance to capitalize on their strengths this season, especially with the right mix of coaches. Ingram’s personal observations and in-depth analysis suggest a far better performance than recent PFF grades indicate. As for coaching, Tua’s comments about Flores should remind organizations of the importance of adapting coaching style to the needs of players.
Hear:
Regard:
Stay tuned to The Real Forno Show to dive deeper into these points and get the latest updates on Vikings strategies and performance ratings. As we navigate the ups and downs of the season together, always remember: SKOL Vikings!
Stay up to date with detailed analysis and reviews of Vikings games and player performances on The Real Forno Show. Subscribe to the show for more insights and receive direct notifications so you don’t miss a thing. Until next time, SKOL Vikings!
BECOME A FAN OF US!!!
Tyler Forness @TheRealForno by Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and A to Z Sports @AtoZSportsNFL with Dave Stefano @Luft_Krigare the production of these Vikings 1. & SKOL Production, on the @RealFornoShow. Podcasts in partnership with Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN and the NFL feed from Fans First Sports Network @FFSN_NFL.
