Vikings vs. 49ers: 5 X-factors for NFC divisional round of playoffs

No. 1: Who Gets the Run Game Going?

Let’s establish one key X-factor for both teams here: Whoever establishes the run game first and keeps it going will win this contest.

For San Francisco, the three-headed monster of running backs Tevin Coleman, Raheem Mostert and Matt Breida doesn’t necessarily need to have standout individual performances. Rather the combined efforts of these three could be the key difference maker.

San Francisco 49ers

Especially considering the Vikings also boast a potent pass rush, mentioned previously. One of the best ways to negate a good pass rush is to make it honest with the ground game.

Good thing the Niners owned the No. 2 rush offense in the league this season.

But Minnesota can’t be overlooked in this department, either. It’s 2,133 rush yards during the regular season were good enough for sixth best, and it’s not hard to understand just how much the Vikings offense runs through running back Dalvin Cook.

Cook, who managed nearly 100 yards and two touchdowns against the Saints, looked far more the potent weapon than he did back in an injury-filled 2018 campaign, or the inconsistent marks seen down the stretch when the Vikings lost three of their last five contests.

Fortunately, the Vikings don’t frequently run between the tackles, which has been a weakness for San Francisco’s run defense this year.

Still, it doesn’t change the fact the Niners must be on point against Cook, should they want to shut down Minnesota’s offense.

The 49ers and Vikings kick off on Saturday, Jan. 11 at 4:35 p.m. ET from Levi’s Stadium.