Minnesota Vikings star running back Dalvin Cook exited Monday Night Football with a shoulder injury after taking a big hit and fumbling the football early in the fourth quarter.
After Cook was removed from the game, the Vikings lost their rhythm. Cook, who has over 1,500 yards from scrimmage and 12 touchdowns, gives Minnesota an offensive scheme that has tripped up numerous defenses this season. So, when the third-year back out of Florida State left the game, the Seahawks jumped out to a big lead and rode it out for the win.
Cook is expected to make a full recovery this week, which is good considering he has a favorable matchup versus the Detroit Lions who rank 30th against the run this year. The Vikings will need to keep him healthy for the remainder of the year if they want a shot at a deep playoff run.
Keep your eye on Cook during practices this week. If he is able to practice in full capacity even later in the week, he should be good to go. If he happens to miss Week 14, look for rookie running back Alexander Mattison to take his place along with Ameer Abdullah and Mike Boone in the backfield.