7 reasons why the Vikings will beat the Falcons in Week 1

Cook is ready to explode

No one on the Vikings’ roster might be looking forward to Sunday’s matchup against the Falcons more than Dalvin Cook.

After missing a bunch of time during his first two seasons with the Vikings due to injury, Cook is ready to prove to everyone why he was selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft.

The Minnesota running back has already displayed flashes of brilliance during his first two years with the team. But 2019 is shaping up to be Cook’s best opportunity to succeed since he entered the league.

This season, the Vikings have a new running back-friendly offensive scheme that could lead to some big-time performances from Cook. In his only on-field action this preseason against the Arizona Cardinals, the Minnesota running back displayed his exciting potential in the team’s new offense when he broke away for an 85-yard touchdown run.

Expect the young running back to be heavily involved in the Vikings’ game plan for Sunday against the Falcons. Atlanta gave up the fifth-most rushing yards per carry in the NFL last season, so Minnesota will likely be placing a heavy emphasis on running the ball this week.

With the Vikings’ offensive focus expected to be centered around their rushing attack, Cook should have plenty of opportunities to showcase his skills on Sunday.