Minnesota Vikings Midseason Review: Grading the offense
By Chris Schad
Evaluating the Running Backs:
Just like the Vikings as a team, many had high hopes for Dalvin Cook coming into this season.
After a solid first two games to open the year, Cook suffered a hamstring injury late in Minnesota’s Week 2 tie against the Green Bay Packers. Since then, he has only played in two games since and many Vikings fans (who probably have Cook on their fantasy team) have been quick to label the second-year running back as a bust.
With Latavius Murray, Mike Boone, and Roc Thomas at the controls, Minnesota’s running unit initially struggled. But it has picked up its performance in recent weeks with an average of 124 yards during their last four games. With this development, the Vikings’ rushing attack should continue to help take the pressure off of Cousins and the team’s passing game.
What could be the best news on the running game front is the return of Cook. Last week, he ran for 89 yards on just 10 carries against the Detroit Lions and he also showed his versatility in the passing game with 20 yards on four catches.
Even if Murray did well in holding down the fort, this is Cook’s backfield. With him healthy, Minnesota’s rushing attack can continue to improve down the stretch.