5 Bold Predictions – Minnesota Vikings vs. Chicago Bears – Week 15
By Chris Schad
Thielen and Jefferson will be the key to a Vikings victory
The one issue that can be presented when suggesting the Vikings air it out more is the presence of Kirk Cousins. While Cousins will never be confused for Patrick Mahomes, he has an arm that’s able to take advantage of bad matchups, which is something he did the last time Minnesota faced the Bears.
In that Week 10 victory, Cousins was able to get the ball to his top weapons in Adam Thielen and Justin Jefferson. While Cook wasn’t turning in his usual superhuman effort, the Vikings were able to attack through the pass and keep the offense moving even though they only scored 11 points.
This week, it will be imperative to get the Vikings’ receivers going again. Thielen has Pro Football Focus’ third-best matchup of the week against Kyle Fuller and Jefferson isn’t far behind as his matchup with Jaylon Johnson ranks fourth.
In addition, both receivers torched the Bears’ secondary in that win with Thielen making two touchdown grabs and Jefferson making eight catches for 135 yards. If both receivers can turn in a similar effort, the Vikings should be able to jump on Chicago early and hopefully coast to a victory.