Minnesota Vikings Unsung Heroes: Week 4 vs. the Houston Texans
By Luke Parrish
Offensive Unsung Hero from Week 4:
C.J. Ham – FB
The Vikings have slowly started utilizing C.J. Ham a bit more each week this season. He played just 24 total snaps in the first two games, which accounted for less than a quarter of the team’s offensive snaps. In Week 3, Ham was on the field for 27 snaps and he played another 32 this weekend in Houston.
Coincidentally, Dalvin Cook has had his two best performances of the season in the past two games as well. When the Vikings put Ham in the backfield, good things happen in the run game for their offense. Against Houston, Minnesota carried the ball 40 times for 162 yards and three touchdowns.
One could make the case that Ham is the most important blocker on the offense when the Vikings get the rushing attack going. His athleticism and tough-nosed approach in space open up lanes for the backs. Fullbacks get no love anymore, but Ham is a guy who deserves a little extra attention.
Expect to see a lot more of Ham in the backfield this season as Minnesota continues to establish the run game early and often.