4 ways the Minnesota Vikings can stop Khalil Mack in Week 4

Create movement in the trenches

The differences in this year’s and last year’s versions of the Minnesota Vikings offense are plenty, but one of the biggest advantages against the Bears could be the movement that occurs in the trenches.

In John DeFilippo’s version of the Vikings’ offense, many times each offensive lineman was assigned to a gap and told to attack the players in front of them. However, as current offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski took over the reins, he implemented variations from the Gary Kubiak offense which requires more athletic linemen that move within a certain play.

With rollouts also being a staple of the Vikings offense, it allows Stefanski to roll the pocket away from Mack, which could give Kirk Cousins more time to find one of his targets downfield or to take yards the Bears may give by dropping back to cover the pass.

This could cause confusion for Mack, whose number one job is to rush the passer (more on this in a moment). By using trap blocks and other stunts to help take out Mack and interior lineman Akiem Hicks, the Vikings should not only be able to keep Kirk Cousins upright but they may also be able to open up lanes for Dalvin Cook which should set up opportunities for bigger pass plays.