Vikings (3-5) at Bears (5-4)
Monday, 8:15 ET, Soldier Field, Chicago
TV:
Danny
ESPN
Sheridan’s ings by 2 1⁄
2
Vikings’ keys to victory: Minnesota’s offense needs to get back to basics with a heavy dose of RB Dalvin Cook against a Bears run defense that is a far cry from the dominant front that it has been over the last couple of years. The Vikings are a different team when the focus is running the ball and taking the pressure off QB Kirk Cousins to win the game. On defense, Minnesota should take advantage of the turnstile that is the Bears’ offensive line, which is down several starters.
Bears’ keys to victory: Chicago’s biggest strength remains its dominant defense, especially given the ineffectiveness of the offense. But this feels like a game where the defense can take over and help its offense get some points. That starts with containing Cook and putting the pressure on Cousins to beat the Bears through the air. Chicago will depend on its pass rush, including OLB Khalil Mack and DT Akiem Hicks, to find a way to force turnovers and put its offense in decent position.
Matchup to watch: Vikings RB Cook vs. Bears ILBs Roquan Smith and Danny Trevathan. The last time Chicago faced Cook, it held him to 35 yards on the ground. While the Bears’ defense struggled defending the run this season, they’ve gotten better of late. As has the play of Smith and Trevathan, who will have their hands full trying to stop Cook, who has eclipsed 100 rushing yards in four of his seven games this season.
Who wins? Despite Chicago’s dominant defense, the offense has been an absolute embarrassment. Vikings 20-13
– Alyssa Barbieri
Bears Wire line:
Vik