Vehicle engine systems and load path brackets for such systems are presented. The load path brackets can be positioned between an air intake system and a cylinder bank of an engine. In some embodiments, the load path brackets can be operatively connected to a surge tank at a first end and to a cylinder head cover at a second end. The load path brackets can be constructed, positioned, and/or oriented to absorb or transfer forces acting upon the engine system during impacts. For instance, the load path brackets can be arranged such that a longitudinal axis of a portion of load path bracket is positioned based on a predetermined force direction of a predetermined impact force.