The Los Angeles Chargers are looking to play spoiler this weekend against a Minnesota Vikings team that’s eager to earn the crown as NFC North champions.
The Vikings can beat their opponents in a multitude a ways, but it’s been running back Dalvin Cook that has been the knockout punch, posting one of his best seasons yet.
There were many that believed Cook would breakout in 2019 after being hampered with injuries in his first two seasons, playing in a new zone scheme under Gary Kubiak. With durability still a concern, Cook has defied the odds.
Heading into Week 15, Cook is tied for the league lead with 13 rushing touchdowns, while ranking fourth in the NFL with 1,108 rushing yards and second with 1,611 yards from scrimmage.
Cook has really come into his own, beating opposing defenses with his power, elusiveness, contact balance and speed when the football is in hands.
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Cook has been utilized out of the backfield as a receiver quite often, where he shines in space.
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His speed is what makes him so dangerous in the screen game, making it difficult for defenders to keep pace.
Outside of being another weapon for quarterback Kirk Cousins in the passing game, he has done some amazing things on the ground.
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Cook’s power and contact balance is second-to-none. He will make defenders pay and tackling is an area that’s been a struggle for the Chargers.
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Cook’s footwork and vision are off the charts. The Chargers have to play gap sound football to make sure he doesn’t find cutback lanes.
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If the Chargers over pursue, Cook is going to notice and find openings for big gains, allowing the Vikings to control the clock.
Overall, stopping Cook isn’t going to be an easy task.
Though the Chargers run defense has been a lot better in previous weeks, especially with the return of safeties Derwin James and Adrian Phillips, Cook presents a challenge that this team hasn’t faced this season.
They can’t load the box because Cousins will eat in the passing game with wide receivers Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen. The Bolts need to have gap integrity, make sure their tackling is on point and they can’t over pursue to the football.
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