5 Bold Predictions: Minnesota Vikings vs. Los Angeles Rams – Week 16
By Chris Schad
Mattison will collect 100 yards on the ground
The Vikings’ path to the playoffs hit another obstacle when Dalvin Cook was placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 list. An unvaccinated player that tested positive, Cook will sit out Sunday’s game against the Rams and potentially miss next week’s game against the Green Bay Packers as he must isolate for 10 days.
Losing a superstar player like Cook throws a wrench into any offense, but the Vikings should be prepared thanks to Alexander Mattison.
The Vikings are 3-1 when Mattison starts dating back to last season. Although three of those games were against the Detroit Lions, Mattison has at least performed at a replacement level, collecting 102.5 yards per game on the ground. More impressively, Mattison has been involved in the passing game, catching 19 passes for 183 yards and two touchdowns.
This bodes well for Mattison entering the matchup with the Rams. Los Angeles ranks 11th in the league in EPA against the run, but the Vikings’ gameplan could be run-heavy if Adam Thielen doesn’t return from his ankle injury. Running the ball could also protect Cousins, who reportedly has a cracked rib, and keep the ball away from Sean McVay’s high-powered offense.
Add it all up and it could turn into a solid game for Mattison.