Shut Down Dalvin Cook and The Running Game

The Packers have an excellent pass rush with Preston Smith and Za’Darius Smith. However, the Vikings’ ability to run the football is what causes issues for defenses. Dalvin Cook is one of the best running backs at breaking out for huge plays.

The Packers cannot let Cook break any big runs this week. If they do that, the Vikings’ play-action pass will open up. Then Minnesota will be able to take deep shots.

The Vikings sent deep threat receiver Stefon Diggs to Buffalo over the offseason. However, rookie Justin Jefferson has tremendous deep threat potential. He is a tall wide receiver with phenomenal speed. If the Packers can shut Cook down close to the line of scrimmage, the Packers safeties can play back a bit.

If Cook breaks out some big runs then those safeties will have to play up to the line. That is when the Vikings become truly dangerous.

The Packers have solid defenders on the edge to contain Cook. Kenny Clark is one of the league’s best interior defensive lineman. Christian Kirksey is a very solid linebacker. The Packers have all of the right pieces to stop Cook.