Viktor
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- Mar 19, 2019
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The Vikings had success in both the passing and run game in their road win against the Giants last week, and Dalvin Cook proved a valuable asset in each.
Minnesota implemented a handful of well-executed screen plays at MetLife Stadium, and the Star Tribune’s Andrew Krammer believes a similar game plan could “boost” the Vikings against the Eagles on Sunday. He wrote:
The Vikings screen game created big gains against the Giants, and the approach could help find room Sunday against an “attacking” Eagles defense recently serving as kryptonite to running backs.
Running back Dalvin Cook’s first 200-yard game from scrimmage last Sunday was boosted by screens, producing plays of 15, 22 and 24 yards in New York. [Vikings Head Coach] Mike Zimmer wants to see more after emphasizing the concept “extremely hard” in Vikings practices.
“The more we can do that, it helps the overall part of the offense,” Zimmer said. “It can possibly slow down some of the rushers.”
The Eagles run defense ranks No. 1, allowing just 3.2 yards per carry. Added incentive for the Vikings screen game is the fact [that] running backs, from Atlanta’s Devonta Freeman to New York [Jets] Le’Veon Bell, have compiled more receiving yards (151) than rushing yards (140) against the Eagles.
Krammer quoted Vikings Offensive Coordinator Kevin Stefanski, who spoke to Twin Cities media members Thursday and emphasized the talent of Philadelphia’s defense.
“It’s an attacking syle. They get off the ball. They tackle well,” Stefanski said. “Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham, what they bring to the table is a really special group.”