Vikings will put Kalil to test against Allen

By Dave Campbell

Associated Press

Published: Friday, July 27 2012 7:05 p.m. MDT

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Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen, left, and Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle and rookie Matt Kalil, right, run a play during practice at NFL football training camp, Friday, July 27, 2012, in Mankato, Minn.

Genevieve Ross, Associated Press

Summary

Matt Kalil was the fourth overall pick in the draft, out of the powerhouse program at USC.

MANKATO, Minn. — Matt Kalil was the fourth overall pick in the draft, out of the powerhouse program at USC.

He's still a rookie, though, so he has a lot to learn.

Well, the Minnesota Vikings have just the teacher for him. His name is Jared Allen, and he'll be here all year.

With 22 sacks last season, Allen came within one-half of Michael Strahan's NFL record, about the only bright spot on a 3-13 record. Kalil says he's eager for the ninth-year veteran defensive end to help him "in any way he can."

Allen says he'll be glad to advise the big left tackle, but warns that Kalil better not hit him in the face or try to hold his jersey.

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