5 Keys to the Game for the 49ers Against the Vikings

Will the 49ers bounce back after their first loss of the season?

Here are the top five keys to the game for the 49ers when they take on the Vikings on Monday Night.

1. Take the Vikings seriously

Last week, the 49ers did not take the Browns seriously. Instead, the 49ers cruised into Cleveland, started a fight before the game, committed 12 penalties, missed two field goals and lost to a third-string quarterback. Essentially, the 49ers beat themselves. And they'll do that again this week if they don't treat the Vikings with the appropriate respect an NFL team deserves. Because without Deebo Samuel and Trent Williams, the 49ers could lose to any team if they don't play their best.

2. Give the ball to Jordan Mason

The Vikings have a good run defense -- it's allowing just 3.7 yards per carry this season -- and they will be geared up to stop Christian McCaffrey, who has an oblique injury. In addition, he is averaging just 3.1 yards per carry the past two games -- he's worn down. Meanwhile, Jordan Mason is averaging 6.4 yards per carry the past two games. The 49ers need to let him carry more of the workload.

3. Throw the ball to George Kittle

Deebo Samuel went down in the first quarter last week, and Kittle still caught just one pass for one yard. That can't happen this week. The 49ers need to get Kittle involved early and often and make sure they target him at least five times. He's too good of a receiver to disappear from the passing game. He needs to score a touchdown in this game.

4. Pick up the blitz

The Vikings blitz more than any defense in the NFL, and the 49ers most likely won't have future Hall of Fame left tackle Trent Williams -- he's doubtful with an ankle injury. Which means Brock Purdy will have to find his hot routes and get rid of the ball quickly. In addition, backup left tackle Jaylon Moore will have to communicate effectively with left guard Aaron Banks when passing off rushers and picking up blitzers. Those two haven't played together much.

5. Pressure Kirk Cousins

The Vikings are a one-dimensional offense -- they rank dead last in rushing attempts. And their best wide receiver, Justin Jefferson, is out. So as long as the 49ers pressure Cousins, they should win. And while the Vikings have two excellent offensive tackles in Christian Darrisaw and Brian O'Neill, the interior of their offensive line is vulnerable. Look for Javon Hargrave and Arik Armstead to have big games.