Minnesota Vikings running back Alexander Mattison returned to the game in the second half after suffering a possible concussion in Week 7 against the San Francisco 49ers. Mattison took a hard hit to the head from linebacker Dre Greenlaw just before halftime, and stayed down on the field for a few moments. He was taken to the locker room for evaluation and did not return for the rest of the first half.
However, after clearing the concussion protocol, Mattison was back on the field for the Vikings’ first drive of the third quarter. He showed no signs of slowing down, as he ran for 47 yards on six carries and caught two passes for 18 yards on that drive, which ended with a touchdown pass from Kirk Cousins to Justin Jefferson.
Mattison Leads Vikings’ Rushing Attack
With Dalvin Cook still sidelined with an ankle injury, Mattison stepped up as the lead back for the Vikings and delivered a stellar performance. He finished the game with 113 rushing yards on 21 carries, averaging 5.4 yards per attempt. He also added four receptions for 29 yards, giving him a total of 142 yards from scrimmage.
Mattison displayed his power, speed and vision throughout the game, breaking tackles and finding holes in the 49ers’ defense. He had several runs of 10 yards or more, including a 19-yard burst in the fourth quarter that set up a field goal for the Vikings. He also converted a crucial third-and-one with a four-yard run in the final minutes, allowing the Vikings to run out the clock and seal the win.
Mattison Rewards Fantasy Managers
Mattison rewarded fantasy managers who started him in Week 7 with a solid performance. He scored 14.2 points in standard leagues and 18.2 points in PPR leagues, according to FanDuel
Mattison has been a reliable fantasy option whenever Cook has been out or limited this season. In Week 3, when Cook missed the game against the Seattle Seahawks, Mattison had 112 rushing yards, six receptions for 59 yards and a touchdown, scoring 23 points in standard leagues and 29 points in PPR leagues. In Week 5, when Cook played only nine snaps against the Detroit Lions, Mattison had 74 rushing yards, four receptions for 20 yards and a touchdown, scoring 15.4 points in standard leagues and 19.4 points in PPR leagues.
Mattison’s fantasy value will depend on Cook’s health status going forward. If Cook is able to return after the Vikings’ bye week in Week 8, Mattison will likely resume his role as a backup and lose most of his fantasy appeal. However, if Cook remains out or limited, Mattison will continue to be a viable RB2 or FLEX option for fantasy managers.
