Lions vs. Vikings Week 7 Scouting Report: Kirk Cousins is heating up

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 30: Kirk Cousins #8 of the Minnesota Vikings passes the ball in the first quarter of the game against the Chicago Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 30, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 30: Kirk Cousins #8 of the Minnesota Vikings passes the ball in the first quarter of the game against the Chicago Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 30, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
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(Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
(Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

2 players to watch for the Vikings

Kyle Rudolph, TE- Vikings tight ends have been an afterthought on offense this season, combining for just 16 catches, 165 yards, and zero touchdowns. Still, the wily veteran has hurt Detroit in the past including a Hail Mary touchdown reception in the Lions’ penultimate game last season, part of a two-score, 122-yard performance.

Rudolph inked a hefty, 4-year, $36 million contract extension in the offseason, and the Vikings would love him to join in on their recent offensive mastery. If he does, it’ll be yet another Minnesota weapon for which the Lions must account on Sunday.

Anthony Harris, S – Harris has rarely been mentioned in recent seasons as one of the league’s best safeties, but that time may be coming to an end. He is currently ranked as Pro Football Focus’ (PFF) number one overall player at the position, and his snap counts have risen dramatically in each of the last two weeks.

He picked off two passes and recovered a fumble in the Vikings’ opener, and playing alongside perennial Pro Bowler Harrison Smith on the back end, he is often given the freedom to make plays all over the field. Look for Smith to lock up with multiple Lions tight ends, as well as providing support over the top to help suppress the Lions’ deep shots.

What will you be looking for in the Lions’ Week 7 matchup with the Vikings? Who do you think has the advantage? Let us know in the comments section below.

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