Arguably the biggest game of the Minnesota Vikings’ season rests on Halloween night as they take on the 5-1 Dallas Cowboys. Coming into the game the biggest headline is how Mike Zimmer will slow down an explosive Cowboys offense. The assignment will be even tougher with the Patrick Peterson injury. The key again is controlling the offensive line and keeping Dallas limited in their play calling abilities.

The Dallas Cowboys have too many weapons for the Vikings to not try and mix up their schemes and confuse Dak Prescott. If the Vikings are able to control the line of scrimmage then the running game won’t be as effective which in turn will limit the effectiveness of the play action.

Not only do the Vikings need to worry about Amari Cooper and Ceedee Lamb but also the tight end Dalton Shultz is a capable playmaker. The Minnesota defense also needs to be aware of which running back is in the game. Both Pollard and Elliott are not only dangerous on the ground but also through the air combining for 31 receptions and 220 receiving yards.

When it comes to the Minnesota Vikings offense, the same is true. Control the line of scrimmage and stay committed to the running game. Whether it is Dalvin Cook or Alexander Mattison the Vikings need to keep feeding them the play to open easy and open passes for Kirk Cousins and his receivers.

Another key strategy for the Vikings offense and Kirk Cousins is to not throw the direction of number 7 on the Dallas defense. Trevon Diggs is a playmaker and continues to cause disruptions and inceptions. He seems to always have at least one impact play during the course of a game so staying away from him or at least limiting his opportunities to make plays will benefit the Vikings and Cousins.

A Sunday night showdown that will show the true nature of this Minnesota Vikings team and whether the playoffs are a possibility. The Vikings will win this game if they are able to win a shootout and their offense is able to continue to score the ball with the Cowboys while also limiting turnovers.