5 Vikings players to watch vs. the Lions in Week 14

Alexander Mattison – RB

Alexander Mattison is having a solid rookie season despite only getting a handful of touches a game. He’s rushed for 416 yards and added 64 more through the air. The biggest surprise is that Mattison has only found the end zone once this season. After analyzing his role in this offense shortly after he was drafted, many figured he’d end the season with around 6 touchdowns as he was seen to be the likely goal line and short-yardage back. That hasn’t happened, but Mattison could see an expanded role this week.

Dalvin Cook injured his shoulder against the Broncos and looks to have reaggravated it against the Seahawks. Despite Cook insisting that he will play this Sunday and that he feels better than expected, the Vikings would be smart to reduce his role this week against the Lions.

The Lions have a poor run defense and are already out of playoff contention. This is a game that the Vikings should dominate from start to finish. If the team does get up big early, they should pull Cook and let Mattison get the rest of the carries. If for some reason it is competitive, they should still increase Mattison’s touches in order to decrease the wear and chance for further injury on Cook’s shoulder.