Which Vikings Should Be Starting in Fantasy Lineups Vs. Carolina?
Josh Frey
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The Vikings have a pivotal matchup in Carolina as they try to reach an even 3-3 record going into their bye. It’s also a big fantasy week as managers begin to work through bye weeks. With that said, which Vikings should be started in fantasy lineups this weekend?
Kirk Cousins- Sit
The Vikings offense has not been great over the past two weeks, scoring a combined 26 points. Part of that has to do with the passing scheme being limited, and it has reflected on Kirk Cousins’ fantasy scores. After three straight weeks of 20+ points to begin the season, he has been held under 15 for the past two.
To make matters more difficult, Cousins now faces a Carolina Panthers defense that has given up the fewest passing yards and second fewest yards per attempt through five games. Granted, the defense has looked more vulnerable after the loss of Jaycee Horn, but this is still a strong unit. Cousins would be a very risky start this week.
Dalvin Cook- Start
Minnesota looks set to ride with Dalvin Cook this week as he has returned to being a full practice participant. In three of five weeks, the Vikings rushing offense has led the way for Minnesota to the tune of 120+ yards. However, they have been unable to punch the ball into the end zone since week one. The team seems long overdue for a rushing touchdown (as well as a second half touchdown in general), and Cook will be the one to lead the way. Cook is at the very least an RB2 this weekend against a defense that just two weeks ago gave up nearly 250 yards on the ground to Dallas.
Adam Thielen- Sit
Scoring touchdowns has been a rarity for the Minnesota Vikings over the past few weeks, and because of that, Adam Thielen’s production has plummeted. This past week, he was held target-less for much of the game against a lowly Detroit Lions defense. It wasn’t until the final game-winning drive that he finally became involved.
Thielen will now go against a Carolina defense that, as aforementioned, has been very good against the pass this season. The Vikings will likely rely on the run for much of the afternoon, and once again, red zone trips could be few and far between.
Justin Jefferson- Start
The Vikings young superstar has quickly become WR1 of the offense. He’s been given eight or more targets in each game this season, and he has come up with multiple big plays for the team. Especially against Carolina, Cousins will likely be trying to get the ball to his reliable receiver early and often. As long as Jefferson maintains his usual target load, he should easily be a WR2 option with WR1 upside.