Dalvin Cook Week 14 Outlook - Ravens at Bills

By Mike Tagliere (FantasyPros), Thu, Dec 5th 2019, 1:14pm EST

We're not likely going to know Cook's status and how much he'll play until Sunday, and even then, there's likely going to be smoke and mirrors. Cook did say he'll play in that game, but if you remember last year like I do, you remember him saying a similar sentiment before their game with the Rams where he went out and re-injured himself, then missed four weeks. Stay tuned for updates on Saturday morning at the bottom of these notes. After starting the year allowing everyone to run through their defense, the Lions have turned things around over the last month. Over their last four games they've allowed 274 yards on 77 carries (3.56 yards per carry) with just one rushing touchdown. They did play the Bears twice and the Redskins during that stretch, two teams who've had trouble running the ball all season, though it's still a step in the right direction. They've seen an average of 28.3 touches per game to running backs, which is more than enough for the timeshare between these two, though they did total a massive 33 touches in the Week 7 meeting. Cook rushed for 142 yards and two touchdowns in that game, highlighting just how well their zone scheme works against Matt Patricia's defense. If he gets back to practice and has no limitations, Cook should be locked into lineups as an RB1 but if the Vikings pull out front early, he's likely finding a warm spot on the bench. Mattison is more of a play if you're betting on the Vikings blowing the Lions out in order for the Vikings to rest Cook in the second half. That's always risky to count on, though if there were one game you could rely on it more than others, it's this one.