Minnesota Vikings: 3 Bold predictions for Week 9 vs. Lions
2. Minnesota focuses on Cook and the run game yet again
Something that has been and should continue to be a focus for the Vikings offense is running things through running back Dalvin Cook and the ground game out of the backfield.
Cook has been one of the top running backs in the NFL this season, yet again showcasing to us all that he should be considered as one of the elite running backs in the league both this season and beyond.
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In what has already been an impressive season for the fourth-year Pro Bowl running back, Cook put on a show in Week 8 against the Packers, leading the Vikings to a much-needed win on the road.
In the victory, Cook did it all for Minnesota, finishing with a team-best 30 carries for 163 yards and three touchdowns on the ground. Through the air in the passing game, he added two catches for 63 yards and one touchdown, including a 50-yard touchdown reception in the second half.
So far this season, Cook has played in six of Minnesota’s seven games after missing the Week 6 contest against the Atlanta Falcons with an injury. Yet, he still ranks near the top of the NFL in multiple rushing categories.
Cook exited the Week 8 contest at Green Bay with a total of 652 rushing yards, which ranks second-best in the NFL behind only Derrick Henry (775). He has a league-leading 10 rushing touchdowns on a total of 122 carries (fifth-most in NFL).
On Sunday in Week 9 against Detroit, Cook will be the focal point once again for the Minnesota offense back at home in Minneapolis. If he is able to get things rolling on the ground yet again, the Vikings should be in a good position at the end of the game.