4 keys to victory for the Vikings at the Bears in Week 10

Make play-action count

Given the form Dalvin Cook has been in since his return to full health, there will be more attention on the NFL’s rushing leader than ever. This is something the Vikings can take advantage of providing they come up with the right sort of play-action calls to take shots down the field when the opportunity arises.

Minnesota did this with great effect in Kevin Stefanski’s offense in 2019. It’s been less evident with Gary Kubiak calling the shots, but there will be chances to make this count if Cook can establish the run against an exceptional front seven of the Bears.

The former Florida State star might not get the sort of lofty numbers he’s acquired over the last fortnight, but that doesn’t mean he cannot be effective. Going away from Cook no matter what sort of yardage he’s gaining isn’t the smart way to go and Kirk Cousins’ struggles in primetime games have been there for all to see during his career.

Despite trading Stefon Diggs to the Buffalo Bills, the Vikings still have prominent pass-catchers in Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen who can make their presence felt in play-action. Both players can get open and downfield quickly. Providing the weather doesn’t prove to be too much of a complication for throwing the ball, this should be utilized early and often in Chicago.