McKinnie learns new tricks from newcomer Allen

Jul/28/08 05:21 PM Filed in: Bryant McKinnie
BryantMckinnie
MANKATO, Minn. - Minnesota Vikings left tackle Bryant McKinnie knows he might not face a tougher pass-rushing defensive end this season than he does every day of training camp in Jared Allen.

That's why McKinnie said he's trying to learn as much as possible from Allen, who had an NFL-best 15{ sacks last season.

"I think he will help me as far as moves that I might struggle with," McKinnie said Sunday. "He has some moves that (other defensive ends) have that I want to learn how to stop."

The two have gone head-to-head a number of times through the first three days of camp; Allen got the best of the matchup in team drills Saturday. Allen's speed off the edge clearly has been a challenge for McKinnie, who has picked Allen's brain about different moves.

"It helps me more, because defensive ends come up with different techniques to try and get around offensive linemen, so we share information with each other," McKinnie said. "It will help in the long run."

Allen said he also benefits from facing McKinnie because of his size (6-8, 335 pounds).

"He's a big dude," Allen said. "I told Coach, 'Another week and a half of this, I might have to take a little break. Pushing 350 around all day (is hard). For me and Bryant to be working together, it's going to make us both better."

(theplympian.com)