5 Bold Predictions: Minnesota Vikings vs. Pittsburgh Steelers – Week 14
By Chris Schad
Jefferson will have a 200-yard game
The Vikings pride themselves on running the ball and playing great defense. With neither of those principles panning out, Minnesota’s best chance for survival is throwing the ball to Justin Jefferson.
Jefferson has been on a roll over the past month, snatching 32 passes for 577 yards and three touchdowns in his last four games. With Dalvin Cook questionable with a shoulder injury and Adam Thielen out with a bad ankle, Jefferson should be the main method to move the ball.
The question is whether the Vikings will actually apply it to the field. Kirk Cousins has repeatedly opted to play it safe when throwing the ball. Even when Jefferson is open or has a chance to make a play, Cousins could check down due to Cover 2 or “cloud” coverage, making the Vikings offense less potent.
In the end, getting Jefferson the ball should be the top priority for the Vikings. If they’re able to do it, he should be in for a big night.