Minnesota Vikings: 3 Reasons why Super Bowl 54 is within reach

1. The ground game

Rushing attacks aren’t exactly known to correlate directly with Super Bowl victories. However, in the case of the Minnesota Vikings, their ground game could very well be the difference.

Right now, Dalvin Cook is arguably the best running back in the NFL. Now that he’s healthy, he’s become a workhorse for the Minnesota offense, and it’s paying massive dividends. His presence takes pressure off of Cousins and the passing game, chews up clock and makes moving the chains much easier than it was a season ago.

More importantly, Cook gives the Vikings a legitimate game-breaker in the backfield. Whether he’s turning what should be a loss into a big gain or picking up huge chunks as a receiver, the third-year back has confirmed what so many Minnesota fans believed — that he’s a superstar.

It also helps that the Vikings have an exceptional backup in Alexander Mattison. The rookie third-round pick has shown well when given opportunities, averaging 4.9 yards per carry while flashing his own abilities to break tackles and move the chains at will. While he may not quite at Cook’s level, Mattison gives the Vikings an explosive No. 2 option at running back.

We also can’t forget the blocking Minnesota’s runners are getting this season. While the Vikings’ front five may not be known for its pass blocking, they’ve done a terrific job of opening holes in the ground game. Ranking third in rushing yards per game should be more than enough evidence to back up that claim.

And just when you thought I was done, I can’t leave out C.J. Ham. He’s made having a fullback valuable, and could very well revive the position in the NFL if he continues to aid Cook in his quest to lead the league in rushing yards.

This is a passing league, but we’ve seen run-heavy teams go the distance before (a la the Seattle Seahawks in 2014). Could that recipe be what finally wins the Vikings their first Lombardi Trophy?