Could Vikings hand off No. 1 RB job to Mattison's backup?

Minnesota Vikings running back Ty Chandler. Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

Could Vikings hand off No. 1 RB job to Alexander Mattison's backup?

By Joe Cox | Last updated 11/22/23

The situation in Minnesota's backfield has taken several turns in 2023.

In the offseason, the Vikings released four-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook, hoping Alexander Mattison could fill his big cleats. The fifth-year running back, however, has not lived up to expectations.

Now there's a chance he could see less playing time in favor of second-year back Ty Chandler, who has impressed in limited action.

On Tuesday, Vikings offensive coordinator Wes Phillips shed some light on Chandler and potential changes in the backfield, telling the media: "We're going to try to get him some touches and make sure that he's a part of [the offense],"

#Vikings OC Wes Phillips today on RB Ty Chandler, and if he can envision Chandler as a lead back: pic.twitter.com/evIHk1Mb2c
— Kevin Seifert (@SeifertESPN) November 21, 2023

In the past two games, Chandler has taken on more of the responsibility. The heaviest workload of his career came two weeks ago against the Saints, when he had 15 carries for 45 yards and a touchdown. The increased workload came because a concussion had knocked Mattison from the game.

In the Week 11 loss Monday against Denver, Chandler had 10 carries for 73 yards, with the highlight a 31-yard run on a fake punt in the fourth quarter.

Mattison, meanwhile, rushed 18 times for 81 yards, including explosive carries that brought back memories of Cook with the Vikings. However, he fumbled late in the third quarter of the 21-20 loss and thus has failed to cement control as the team's No. 1 running back.

"It's very important that our guys understand how important it is to possess the football," Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said Wednesday, per ESPN.com's Kevin Seifert.

It’s unclear who will be lead back for the “Monday Night Football” game against the Bears and their stout run defense, which is second best in the league (79.5 YPG). Expect Chandler to be an integral part of the game plan, and if Mattison fumbles again or performs poorly, Chandler could become the lead back.

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