3 reasons why the Vikings will beat the Bengals in Week 15

Reason 3: Vikings can capitalize on explosive play opportunities

The Bengals have struggled to stop explosive plays all season, and if the Vikings win Saturday's game, it could potentially be due to hitting on a number of big-chunk plays that allow them to keep up with Cincinnati's own explosive offense.

Defensively, Cincinnati is an excellent unit. They rush the passer very well. Their linebackers are sticky in coverage, and it's clear their weakest link is their defensive backfield.

It will not be easy for Minnesota quarterback Nick Mullens to hit on these chunk plays, so it will be imperative for head coach and offensive play-caller Kevin O'Connell to call a good game. Mullens is much more of a gunslinger than Josh Dobbs is and he will take more chances downfield.

Having a gunslinging quarterback bodes well for the Vikings in this game when it comes to picking up chunk yardage in key situations. If Justin Jefferson can get going and the run game is somewhat effective, then we should see several shots downfield taken by Minnesota's offense through the air on Saturday.