The Minnesota Vikings are coming off a win in their past matchup against the Chicago Bears. What are some key matchups that Minnesota needs to win if they want to leave Week 7 victorious?
The Minnesota Vikings face off against a tough San Francisco 49ers team on Monday night this week, putting Kirk Cousins in a primetime game, a recipe that has been a mixed bag.
This is a team sport, and wins are not a quarterback stat, so there are matchups all over the field that the Vikings will need to win if they want to get their third victory on the season.
If Minnesota wants to prove to the league that they aren't done yet, a win against the 49ers this week would go a long way in making that statement.
What are some key matchups that the Vikings need to win this week against San Francisco if they hope to prove themselves to the league?
1. Brian O'Neill vs. Nick Bosa
Nick Bosa is one of the premier edge rushers in the entire league, so if Minnesota wants any chance at winning, they need to find a way to slow him down.
Bosa usually comes off the right side, so it should be a matchup that Vikings right tackle Brian O'Neill needs to step up for. O'Neill has been elite this season, but this will be his biggest test of the year.
Keeping Cousins out of trouble will go a big way in helping the team secure a win, as he has had his struggles under pressure this season that have led to costly turnovers.
Playing a clean game against San Francisco would be a big confidence boost for Minnesota, as they have had their struggles with holding onto the ball this season.
Slowing down Bosa, the 49ers' motor on their defensive line, will be a major key for the Vikings on Monday night.