5 Bold Predictions: Minnesota Vikings vs. Kansas City Chiefs – Week 5
By Chris Schad
Bold Prediction No. 2
The Vikings will run for a season-high in rushing yards
One of the Vikings’ biggest priorities this offseason has been establishing the run, and while that hasn’t turned O’Connell into Mike Zimmer, it might be the best way for Minnesota to earn a win over the Chiefs on Sunday.
Alexander Mattison had his best performance of the season against Carolina, running for 93 yards on 17 carries. Cam Akers also had a successful debut, running for 40 yards on five carries to provide an effective 1-2 punch.
This is the type of rushing attack that O’Connell envisioned when the Vikings released Dalvin Cook last offseason, but it hasn’t gotten off the ground due to turnovers and the fluid state of the offensive line.
With the line beginning to settle in – and potentially getting reinforcement from the return of Garrett Bradbury – Minnesota could use Akers and Mattison to control the time of possession after almost getting out-possessed 2-to-1 in the win over the Panthers.
With the Chiefs 4.4 yards per attempt this season, the ability to run the ball should be there, and the Vikings should be able to take advantage.