Bengals: 5 most important individual matchups vs. Vikings in Week 1

Logan Wilson vs. Dalvin Cook

Logan Wilson knows exactly what Dalvin Cook brings to the table.

As Wilson noted, Dalvin Cook is an outstanding rusher.

To be exact, Cook ran for 1,557 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns.

But he is also an excellent pass-catcher out of the backfield. Last year, he finished the season with 44 receptions for 361 yards. 8.2 yards per reception. Those numbers were down from 2019. That is why he is a top pick in fantasy drafts.

But now, Wilson is a leader on the defense. He will be wearing the green dot on his helmet that signifies the play-caller for the defense. He will be counted on to continue to make splash plays against the pass and help contain the opponents using attack.

If the Vikings’ pass attack is limited somewhat because of the lack of experience of their tight ends due to Irv Smith’s injury, Minnesota might rely that much more on Cook’s ability to pass catch.

Slowing down Cook and the run game is going to be critical for the Bengals’ defense. The men in the middle of it all will be Wilson and Cook.

These are the most important matchups on Sunday when the Vikings come to Cincinnati to face the Bengals in Week 1.