Minnesota Vikings betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets – Page 4

Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings Week 1 odds and lines, with expert NFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Green Bay Packers look to continue their stranglehold on the NFC North as they open the season on the road against the only division rival that can claim memorable victories against them when they meet the Minnesota Vikings Sunday. Kickoff at US Bank Stadium is at 4:25 p.m. ET (FOX). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Packers vs. Vikings odds, and make our expert NFL picks and predictions.

The Packers have run roughshod over the lesser teams of the NFC North for the better part of 2 decades. The lone exception has been the Vikings. Minnesota always gives the Packers a fight and takes away their fair share of wins. The teams split 2 games last season and the all-time series is 55-55-3.

The Packers are the slightest of favorites (1.5 points), but there is a good reason why. The Packers offensive line is dinged already and one has to question who QB Aaron Rodgers will recognize among his receiver corps … much less in the deafening din of the House of Skol that will make audibles almost impossible.

The Vikings are coming in with a veteran-laden team with Pro Bowl talent on both sides of the ball rejuvenated by the arrival of new coach Kevin O’Connell. Enthusiasm is 1 thing, but what hasn’t been talked about is that, for first time in the 62-year history of the franchise, the Vikings are going to be operating a 3-4 defense that Rodgers has never equated with the Vikings personnel.

Play to win $25K: USA TODAY NFL Survivor pool!

Packers at Vikings odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 4:35 a.m. ET.

Money line (ML): Packers -112 (bet $112 to win $100) | Vikings -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Packers -0.5 (-115) | Vikings +0.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 46.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

Claim your risk-free bet up to $350. Catch the excitement and start betting with Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Bet now!

Packers at Vikings key injuries

Packers

OT David Bakhtiari (knee) questionable
OL Elgton Jenkins (pectoral/knee) questionable
WR Allen Lazard (ankle) doubtful

Vikings

DL Jonathan Bullard (biceps) questionable
CB Lewis Cine (knee) questionable

[the_huddle]

Vikings at Packers picks and predictions

Prediction

Vikings 27, Packers 24

Money line

TAKE THE VIKINGS (-105).

The big headline has been that Rodgers is without WR Davante Adams, who was traded to Las Vegas shortly after Rodgers agreed to $50 million a year. The veteran QB is also without WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling (Kansas City) and, to a lesser extent, Equanimeous “Buy a Vowel” St. Brown (Chicago). Those were guys Rodgers worked with for years. Add in Lazard missing reps with an ankle injury, and the familiarity Rodgers has his with his wideout crew will be somewhat off.

In most instances, when an organization fires a head coach and general manager, it equates to a roster implosion. That’s not the case in Minnesota. The implosion is coming, especially on defense, but it isn’t here yet. Anybody resembling a starter was given the preseason off to work on implementing new schemes. These guys all know each other as remnants of the Rick Spielman/Mike Zimmer toxic relationship.

Will it hold up for an entire season? Probably not. But for 1 game with Rodgers as vulnerable as he’s been in a long time with his backup band? Yup.

Against the spread

HARD PASS

Why lay a half point at -105 when we can get the money line at -105?

Over/Under

OVER 46.5 (-110)

One of Rodgers’ greatest skills is locating a defender who shouldn’t be on the field and targeting that guy over and over again — veteran QB waterboarding. The Vikings have a couple of those guys. Although his receivers are either raw or on the very (very) backsides of their careers, Rodgers can throw enough 7-yard darts on 3rd-and-6 to put points up.

The Vikings are going to keep throwing and try to press the issue, which leads to each team having a couple of more offensive series than in a typical game. Both teams will go for the throat if they’re ahead and don’t care about the clock.

That’s a sweet recipe to hit the Over because, while the prediction is cautious, 1 of these teams is likely to score 30 or more. Doesn’t take much to hit 46.5 if that happens.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

More NFL Week 1 coverage

Want some action on this game or any other NFL matchup? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Access more NFL coverage:

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Minnesota Vikings at Denver Broncos odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Minnesota Vikings at Denver Broncos odds and lines, with expert NFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The preseason mercifully comes to an end for 2 teams with playoff aspirations when the Minnesota Vikings (0-2) go on the road to face the Denver Broncos (1-1) at 8 p.m. Saturday at Empower Field at Mile High. The game will be carried on NFL Network and in the local markets. Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Vikings vs. Broncos odds, and make our best NFL picks, predictions and bets.

The final preseason game of any season can best be viewed as a FRO game (For Relatives Only) and neither the Vikings nor Broncos have made any effort to be competitive and it has showed.

Minnesota has a veteran-heavy team, especially on defense and isn’t taking any chances under new coach Kevin O’Connell. The team is laden with big-name players with NFL pedigrees on both sides of the ball, but none of them have seen action. That won’t change this week.

Despite losing badly in both their games, the Vikings are are a half-point favorite on the road — primarily because the Broncos got gutted like a fish last week by the Buffalo Bills. But it should be noted, Josh Allen and the first-team starters played a series and the 2nd-team offense was led by Case Keenum — a starter for multiple teams. This is an overreaction that needs to be corrected.

Vikings at Broncos odds

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 6:27 p.m. ET.

Money line (ML): Vikings -115 (bet $115 to win $100) | Broncos -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Vikings -0.5 (-115) | Broncos +0.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 36.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

Exclusive USA TODAY Network offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $200 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Vikings at Broncos picks and predictions

Prediction

Broncos 23, Vikings 13

Money line

When it comes to betting on the preseason — I fervently discourage it — you’re doing more of a deep dive on the back end of rosters than the front end. Russell Wilson‘s first game with the Broncos is going to come in Week 1. The same goes for more than a dozen Vikings starters.

While both Minnesota and Denver are legitimate playoff contenders, most of the guys you see Saturday are competing for back-end roster spots. We have seen that Minnesota’s 3rd and 4th line on the depth chart are dismal. The new front office regime inherited an aging roster. The Broncos are just the opposite. With the exception of the secondary and quarterback, Denver has a very young roster and players who aren’t locked into roles behind the starters.

I bet against the Vikings in both of their 2 preseason games to date and they lost both, including when installed as a 4.5 point favorite against a deeper 49ers team last week. Third time’s a charm to keep winning.

Take the BRONCOS (-105) and see the explanation below.

Against the spread

I’m always intrigued by a 0.5 point favorite with identical lines for straight up and the spread because it makes no sense. If you’re betting the underdog on such a pee wee spread, you have the benefit of the tie coming into play. Believe me, the last thing ANYONE wants to see is the last preseason game end in an overtime tie.

In the regular season, the prospect of a tie is always out there. They don’t happen often, but they do happen. Being gifted the hook when you think the team your picking is going to win, the hedge of having that extra half-point in the unlikely event of a tie gives you two of three potential outcomes.

Take the BRONCOS (-105).

[the_huddle]

Over/Under

TAKE THE UNDER (-115)

Something always knit into the fabric of a final preseason game is the wish to get it over with. Keep the clock running. If both teams are capable of running the ball effectively, they will keep doing it. Passing will likely be short unless a glaring, obvious personnel weakness is shamefully exposed.

The players on the field in the 2nd half likely know their days are numbered. They’re trying to put something on tape to impress other teams. Defensive players usually give the extra effort that slows down drives.

I was tempted to put PASS on all three betting options, but that wouldn’t be right – even for a game hard-core fans will tune out of.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Access more NFL coverage:

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Minnesota Vikings at Las Vegas Raiders odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Sunday’s Minnesota Vikings at Las Vegas Raiders odds and lines, with expert NFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Minnesota Vikings become the last team to get the 2022 preseason underway when they visit the Las Vegas Raiders (1-0) at 4:25 p.m. ET Sunday at Allegiant Stadium. The game will be televised on NFL Network and in the home markets. Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Vikings vs. Raiders, and make our best NFL picks, predictions and bets.

It’s unclear whether the Vikings had any intention of playing QB Kirk Cousins, but that point was rendered moot when the quarterback tested positive for Covid. He won’t be making the trip which will give the team a chance to get a long look at QBs Kellen Mond and Sean Mannion — both of whom are viewed as potentially not being on the final roster if a better backup becomes available.

The Raiders didn’t play any of their starters in the Hall of Fame Game — a 27-11 blowout win over Jacksonville Aug. 4 in Canton, Ohio. The extra game shouldn’t change things too much and it wouldn’t be surprising to see nothing but backups in this game as new coaches Josh McDaniels and Kevin O’Connell try to figure out the back end of their rosters.

Vikings vs. Raiders odds

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:26 a.m. ET.

Money line (ML): Vikings +170 (bet $100 to win $170) | Raiders -210 (bet $210 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Vikings +3.5 (-108) | Raiders -3.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 36.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Vikings at Raiders picks and predictions

Prediction

Raiders 23, Vikings 14

Money line

Given the Raiders have already played a game, those who are on the bubble or fighting for their NFL lives will have a leg up on the Vikings, who are changing their defense to a 3-4 for the 1st time in franchise history and still learning the terminology of the new coaching staff. I believe the Raiders are going to win, but I rarely place a bet wagering twice as much as I would get in return — much less in a meaningless preseason game.

PASS.

Against the spread

The Raiders are viewed as the better team in this matchup, primarily because their 2nd and 3rd lines on the depth chart are better than the Vikings. A 3.5 spread shows that confidence.

The line seems to be goading people to put their money on Las Vegas because, as millions can attest each year, you lose money betting in Vegas. But the combination of the Vikings trying to figure out the depth beyond the starting 22 and the Raiders starting to figure out who will be staying and going, the Raiders have the edge.

BET RAIDERS -3.5 (-112).

WIN YOUR FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE!

For over 25 years, TheHuddle.com has been helping fantasy players just like you win. This year, it’s your turn! Custom player rankings, tools and more to give you the edge over your competition.

Use code SBW22 to take 20% OFF a new subscription. Join now!

Over/Under

These are the most difficult bets in the preseason because most coaches are more concerned about keeping the players they expect to stay on the roster not risking injuries. Games are decided by and large by players who won’t be on the rosters.

Because these players will be taking risks to make the big play that gets the attention of the coaches and front office, an Over/Under of 36.5 isn’t that difficult to beat. It may require 20 or more points in the first half to accomplish, but both teams will have some home run plays dialed up and given the inexperience of the back-end defenders, you only need a couple of them to hit.

TAKE OVER 36.5 (-112).

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Access more NFL coverage:

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Sunday’s Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings Week 18 odds and lines, with expert NFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Chicago Bears (6-10) and Minnesota Vikings (7-9) close out their disappointing 2021 seasons when they meet at 1 p.m. ET Sunday at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Below, we look at the Vikings vs. Bears odds and lines, and make our best NFL picks, predictions and bets.

Two teams that finished the 2020 season on the same field with the winner going to playoffs (Chicago) and the loser going home (Minnesota) are now closing out non-playoff seasons that could see both of their head coaches fired.

Both teams have COVID-related question marks, as the Bears will be forced to stick with a banged-up QB Andy Dalton, while Minnesota currently has three starters (including two offensive linemen) still in the COVID protocol at the end of Friday’s practice.

Also see: Bet Slippin’ Podcast: NFL Week 18 picks and predictions

Bears at Vikings odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Saturday at 4:45 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bears +170 (bet $100 to win $170) | Vikings -210 (bet $210 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Bears +4.5 (-115) | Vikings -4.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 44.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

PLAY: Try our new, free daily Pick’em Challenge and win. Play now!

Bears at Vikings key injuries

Bears

QB Justin Fields (COVID) out
DT Akiem Hicks (ankle) out
LB Robert Quinn (shoulder) questionable
DT Eddie Goldman (finger) questionable
DB Duke Shelley (heel) questionable

Vikings

DT Michael Pierce (illness) doubtful
CB Mackensie Alexander (ankle) questionable
CB Kris Boyd (ribs) questionable
LB Eric Kendricks (COVID) questionable
G Wyatt Davis (illness) questionable

Let’s Make This Interesting

Place your legal sports bets online in New Jersey and Colorado with Tipico Sportsbook, a trusted, global sports-betting leader. Iowa, get ready, Tipico is coming to your state soon! New customer offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $100 in instant bet credits! 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Bet now!

Bears at Vikings odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Vikings 23, Bears 20

Money line

The Bears have been a thorn in Minnesota’s side, winning all three games at US Bank Stadium during Matt Nagy’s tenure. It will be critical for the Bears to get after Vikings QB Kirk Cousins because he is awful when he has pressure in his face.

But with Hicks out and Quinn and Goldman as question marks, Cousins should get enough time to get the team in scoring position enough to win.

If I was going to bet on this, I’d place a small bet on the Bears given their recent track record on the road in this series at nearly twice the payout for investment.

But the smart move is to AVOID.

Against the spread

The same rationale applies here. The Bears don’t struggle on the road against their division rival, and, despite having an offense that has sputtered much of the season, the Vikings’ run defense has been among the worst in the league.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see Bears RB David Montgomery run 20-25 times and Chicago scoring enough points to cover the 4.5 point spread.

BET the BEARS +4.5 (-115)

Over/Under

Given the disparity in the betting lines, the belief is that this game will go Over, but I’m not as convinced as the oddsmakers.

The Bears are going to try to grind the ball against a defense that struggles to stop it and Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer was fuming over not giving RB Dalvin Cook the ball enough in a blowout loss to Green Bay last week.

Look for Cook and Montgomery to both be front and center in the respective game plans, which will take 40 seconds off the clock every time they run and make it more difficult to hit 44 points.

They’ll come close, but take the UNDER 44.5 (-112)

Also see: NFL Week 18 odds and lines

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Access more NFL coverage:

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Sunday’s Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers odds and lines, with expert NFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Minnesota Vikings (7-8) have their playoff hopes hanging in the balance when they travel to meet the Green Bay Packers (12-3) for Sunday Night Football. Kickoff from Lambeau field is set for 8:20 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Vikings vs. Packers odds and lines, and make our best NFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Vikings have not been above .500 all season, but have numerous tie-breaker advantages in their favor. However, the line jumped by six points when it was learned that QB Kirk Cousins had tested positive for COVID-19 Friday and won’t be available for Sunday’s game.

Minnesota is in a huge hole since it doesn’t have a quality backup and will turn to QB Sean Mannion with its season on the line.

The Vikings are one of only three teams to beat Green Bay this season despite the Packers going 12-2 since a humbling loss to New Orleans in Week 1.

Green Bay controls its own destiny to earn the No. 1 seed in the NFC and make any Super Bowl run go through Lambeau Field in late January — a huge advantage for the Packers since the only teams that can catch them are all warm-weather squads.

Vikings at Packers odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:07 a.m. ET.

Money line: Vikings +470 (bet $100 to win $470) | Packers -700 (bet $700 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Vikings +12.5 (-103) | Packers -12.5 (-117)
Over/Under (O/U): 42.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

PLAY: Try our new, free daily Pick’em Challenge and win. Play now!

Vikings at Packers key injuries

Vikings

QB Kirk Cousins (reserve/COVID) out
WR Adam Thielen (ankle/Injured Reserve) out
CB Cameron Dantzler (calf) doubtful
DT Michael Pierce (illness) questionable
TE Tyler Conklin (hamstring) questionable

Packers

OT David Bakhtiari (knee) out
G Billy Turner (knee) out
CB Jaire Alexander (shoulder) out

Let’s Make This Interesting

Vikings at Packers odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Packers 34, Vikings 10

Money line

Since the announcement that Cousins won’t be playing the money line has exploded. Nobody should ever make a bet when your investment is seven times the return and throwing money at Minnesota is simply wasting it.

AVOID.

Against the spread

The team with the best record in the league is going up against a team that prepared all week that it would have Cousins and now have to turn to Mannion, who was on the practice squad until Friday morning.

The spread is big at 12.5 points, but I’m convinced the Packers can double that number. TAKE the PACKERS -12.5 (-117).

Over/Under

The hardest part about this line is whether Minnesota can score enough points to hold up its end of the bargain. RB Dalvin Cook and WR Justin Jefferson will likely do enough to get the Vikings in scoring position a couple of times, but Green Bay is more than capable of scoring the 34 points we’re projecting. BET the OVER 42.5 points (-112)

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Access more NFL coverage:

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Los Angeles Rams at Minnesota Vikings odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Sunday’s Los Angeles Rams at Minnesota Vikings odds and lines, with expert NFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Los Angeles Rams (10-4) continue their quest for the NFC West title as they travel to play the Minnesota Vikings (7-7) at 1 p.m. ET Sunday at US Bank Stadium. Below, we look at the Rams vs. Vikings odds and lines, and make our best NFL picks, predictions and bets.

Thanks to Arizona struggling in recent weeks, the Rams have a chance of catching them and are still alive in the chase for the No. 1 seed in the NFC.

The Vikings continue to deal with players being sidelined by COVID-19 protocol – the latest being star running back Dalvin Cook, who will miss Sunday’s game.

Also see: All Week 16 odds and lines

Rams at Vikings odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:40 a.m. ET.

Money line: Rams -175 (bet $175 to win $100) | Vikings +140 (bet $100 to win $140)
Against the spread (ATS): Rams -3.5 (+100) | Vikings +3.5 (-120)
Over/Under (O/U): 48.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

PLAY: Try our new, free daily Pick’em Challenge and win. Play now!

Rams at Vikings key injuries

Rams

DT Greg Gaines (ankle) questionable

Vikings

RB Dalvin Cook (COVID) out
WR Adam Thielen (ankle) questionable
FB C.J. Ham (hamstring) questionable

Let’s Make This Interesting

Rams at Vikings odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Rams 27, Vikings 24

Money line

If I had to make a small wager on this one, I would lean toward the Rams because -175 isn’t an absurd amount to give away. Personally, I would be more likely to avoid this, but if you’re making a bet, the smart money is on the RAMS (-175)

Against the spread

This is a tough spread because it should be about spot on. The one caveat I would make is that the Rams are capable of blowing out the Vikings. Minnesota is not capable of blowing out the Rams, especially being without Cook and possibly Thielen. I see this being a tight game where Minnesota scores late to get it back to within reach, but the Rams grind out the clock late. Getting the Vikings at home and more than a field goal is too tempting to pass for a team with their season (and possibly the jobs of their head coach and G.M.) on the line. An organizational shakeup is often the biggest motivation players and coaches need to take chances and pull out all the stops. VIKINGS +3.5 (-120)

Over/Under

This is one of the higher Over/Under numbers on the board because both teams are capable of putting up points, and if one team gets ahead by double digits at some point, both teams could abandon the run and start throwing on every down. Topping 48.5 points is never easy, but this game has the look of a back-and-forth game with big plays in the passing game and turnovers that tip the balance. OVER 48.5 (-112)

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Access more NFL coverage:

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Monday Night Football’s Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears Week 15 odds and lines, with expert NFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The well-rested Minnesota Vikings (6-7) travel into their personal house of horrors when they face the Chicago Bears (4-9) in the Week 15 Monday Night Football game. Kickoff is set for 8:15 p.m. ET at Soldier Field. Below, we look at the Vikings vs. Bears odds and lines, and make our best NFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Vikings, who last played Thursday, Dec. 9, remain on the outside looking at the playoffs and have been their own worst enemy much of the season. All of their losses have been by 8 points or less and many of them have been squandered late in games. You can bet all eyes will be on QB Kirk Cousins and his career-long struggles in prime-time games.

CB Jaylon Johnson and S Tashaun Gipson were the latest Bears to land on the reserve/COVID-19 list, which now includes the entire starting secondary. As of Sunday night, Chicago had 14 players on the list including WR Allen Robinson II, backup QB Andy Dalton, TE Jesse James, OT Larry Borom, CB Duke Shelley.

Vikings at Bears odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:48 a.m. ET.

Money line: Vikings -290 (bet $290 to win $100) | Bears +225 (bet $100 to win $225)
Against the spread (ATS): Vikings -6.5 (-110) | Bears +6.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 44.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

PLAY: Try our new, free daily Pick’em Challenge and win. Play now!

Vikings at Bears key injuries

Vikings

WR Adam Thielen (ankle) questionable

Bears

WR Marquise Goodwin (foot) doubtful
DE Akiem Hicks (ankle) questionable
SS DeAndre Houston-Carson (forearm) out
OT Jason Peters (ankle) out
LB Roquan Smith (hamstring) questionable

Let’s Make This Interesting

Vikings at Bears odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Vikings 28, Bears 20

Money line

Minnesota has found ways to lose in Chicago consistently. If I were to place a wager on this, it would be a small bet on the Bears (+225) at more than double the return.

However, I strongly believe Minnesota will win, and with the price too high at -290, my advice is AVOID.

Against the spread

These appear to be two teams going in different directions. The Bears are beset with injuries and too many players uncertain in the COVID protocol. The Vikings should be well-rested since they’ve had 11 days in between games.

While nothing seems to ever come easy for Minnesota at Soldier Field and with so much at stake – a playoff spot and the jobs of the head coach and general manager – it needs to take advantage of playing a short-handed Bears squad. BET VIKINGS -6.5 (-110).

Over/Under

The O/U 44.5 is almost the perfect number for the total.

If the Bears are to win, they need to limit the Vikings to 20 points or less. The Vikings are capable of blowing out the Bears, which could make for a late comeback like the furious return the Steelers made vs. the Vikes in Week 14.

I believe the score will be close to this number and may require a late score to hit it, but both Minnesota’s offense and defense are capable of allowing those critical points to be scored. BET OVER 44.5 (-108).

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Access more NFL coverage:

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Pittsburgh Steelers at Minnesota Vikings odds, picks and predictions: Player prop bets

Analyzing the Pittsburgh Steelers at Minnesota Vikings Week 14 matchup and offering up expert picks and predictions on the top player prop bets.

The Pittsburgh Steelers (6-5-1) hit the road fresh off their Week 14 victory over the Baltimore Ravens to take on the Minnesota Vikings (5-7) at U.S. Bank Stadium for Thursday Night Football. Kickoff will be at 8:20 p.m. ET as both of these teams try to keep their playoff hopes alive. Below, we look at the Steelers vs. Vikings prop bet odds and lines, and make our best NFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Steelers secured a much-needed win last week by beating the Ravens 20-19. It came down to a failed two-point conversion by Baltimore helped the Steelers snap their two-game losing skid and get them back on track after a terrible finish to November. They rank 21st in scoring and 22nd in total yards.

The Vikings were stunned by the Detroit Lions in Week 13 as they lost with QB Jared Goff throwing a game-winning touchdown pass as time expired. It was Minnesota’s second loss in a row and its fourth in the last six weeks, dropping to 5-7 after starting the season 3-3. The defense has been a major problem as it’s allowed the third-most yards in the NFL.

Steelers at Vikings prop bet picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Thursday at 3:45 p.m. ET.

Steelers WR Dionte Johnson OVER 80.5 receiving yards (-130)

Johnson has been on a tear as of late, going for at least 83 yards in each of his last four games and in five of his last six. He hasn’t been targeted fewer than 11 times since Week 9 and against a Vikings defense that has been terrible against the pass and has allowed the sixth-most yards after the catch this season.

Johnson could be in for a big game — he’s undoubtedly QB Ben Roethlisberger‘s favorite target right now with WR JuJu Smith-Schuster out.

PLAY: Try our new, free daily Pick’em Challenge and win. Play now!

Steelers TE Pat Freiermuth anytime TD scorer (+220)

Freiermuth has scored six touchdowns as a rookie, becoming a valuable red zone weapon for Roethlisberger. He’s scored in each of his last three road games and has found the end zone twice in his last three games overall.

Safety Harrison Smith is a tough draw for Freiermuth, but Big Ben looks his way pretty often in the red zone and his size could cause problems for Minnesota.

Vikings WR Justin Jefferson OVER 93.5 receiving yards (-114)

WR Adam Thielen won’t play in this one due to a high ankle sprain suffered in Week 13 against the Lions. That leaves Jefferson as QB Kirk Cousins‘ go-to receiver, which was certainly the case on Sunday in Detroit.

Jefferson was targeted 14 times and caught 11 passes for 182 yards, most of which came after Thielen left the game. He’s had at least 100 yards receiving in three of his last four games.

WIN YOUR FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE!

For 25 years, TheHuddle.com has been helping fantasy players just like you win. This year, it’s your turn! Custom player rankings, tools and more to give you the edge over your competition.

Use code SBW21 to take 20% OFF a new subscription. Join now!

Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger OVER 22.5 pass completions (-120)

The Vikings allow a completion rate of 62.3% to opposing quarterbacks, not a particularly high number but it’s only slightly below Roethlisberger’s season average of 64.8%. He’s thrown at least 30 passes in each of his last six games and completed at least 21 in all of them, too.

This could be a game where the Steelers throw a bunch of quick, short passes (as they often do) to negate the Vikings’ pass rush. That should lead to a high number of completions for Roethlisberger, especially if the game script calls for a pass-heavy attack should the Vikings grab an early lead.

Vikings TE Tyler Conklin OVER 39.5 receiving yards (-114)

Conklin should see significantly more targets and opportunities tonight with Thielen being out. He was targeted a season-high nine times last week and caught seven passes for 56 yards. He’s topped 40 yards in five other games, too.

The Steelers don’t allow a ton of production to opposing tight ends (48.6 yards per game) but Conklin should see an uptick in catches and yards in Thielen’s absence.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @camdasilva on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Access more NFL coverage:

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Pittsburgh Steelers at Minnesota Vikings odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Thursday’s Pittsburgh Steelers at Minnesota Vikings odds and lines, with expert NFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Pittsburgh Steelers (6-5-1) travel to play the Minnesota Vikings (5-7) Thursday in a battle of the only two teams that have played the Detroit Lions this season and not come away with a win. Kickoff from U.S. Bank Stadium is set for 8:20 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Steelers vs. Vikings odds and lines, and make our best NFL picks, predictions and bets.

Both teams made statements last week about their playoff chances. The Steelers pulled out a late 20-19 win over the Baltimore Ravens to keep their slim playoff hopes alive in the stacked AFC playoff chase where a .500 record won’t cut it.

The Vikings pulled defeat from the jaws of victory once again in a 29-27 loss to the Lions as time expired. A victory would have kept them at 6-6 and tied for the final two wild card spots in a not-so-stacked NFC playoff race that will likely see a team make it with a losing record.

Both teams are on the outside looking in for the playoffs and, for the loser of this one, it may be the final nail in their 2021 playoff coffin.

Steelers at Vikings odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:47 a.m. ET.

Money line: Steelers +135 (bet $100 to win $135) | Vikings -170 (bet $170 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Steelers +3.5 (-125) | Vikings -3.5 (+102)
Over/Under (O/U): 43.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

PLAY: Try our new, free daily Pick’em Challenge and win. Play now!

Steelers vs. Vikings key injuries

Steelers

CB Joe Haden (foot) out
G B.J. Finney (back) out
LB Robert Spillane (knee) out
DE Isaiah Buggs (ankle) out

Vikings

WR Adam Thielen (ankle) out
OT Christian Darrisaw (ankle) out
RB Dalvin Cook (shoulder) questionable
LB Blake Lynch (hip) questionable
C Cameron Bynum (ankle) questionable

WIN YOUR FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE!

For 25 years, TheHuddle.com has been helping fantasy players just like you win. This year, it’s your turn! Custom player rankings, tools and more to give you the edge over your competition.

Use code SBW21 to take 20% OFF a new subscription. Join now!

Steelers vs. Vikings odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Steelers 23, Vikings 20

Money line

I find it somewhat shocking that given their respective results that Minnesota remains a favorite. While the Vikings are getting a lot of players back that they didn’t have last week, including LB Eric Kendricks, LB Anthony Barr and CB Patrick Peterson, they’re still shorthanded on offense, which plays to the strength of the Steelers.

Pittsburgh is almost certain to do everything in its power to take WR Justin Jefferson away from QB Kirk Cousins. Take the STEELERS (+135).

Against the spread

If you don’t think the Vikings will win outright, being given 3.5 points and the team you think is going to win is a gift. Take the STEELERS +3.5 (-125).

Over/Under

A lot of Thursday games, especially recently, have been sloppy affairs that clearly show teams that are beat up and sore and never really get a full practice in over and above a walk-through.

The combined point total has been 32 or fewer points in three of the last four TNF games and 44 points in the other. Both teams are capable of putting up enough points to hit the Over, but two veteran-laden teams on a short week (barring a defensive or special teams touchdown) has me looking UNDER 43.5 (-105).

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Access more NFL coverage:

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Sunday’s Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions Week 13 odds and lines, with expert NFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Minnesota Vikings (5-6) are still in the playoff hunt and need to beat the teams they should beat and no team exemplifies a team to beat like the Detroit Lions (0-10-1). Kickoff for their Week 13 matchup at Ford Field is set for 1 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Vikings vs. Lions odds and lines, and make our best NFL picks, predictions and bets.

Minnesota is 2-4 on the road, but it should be noted that three of those four losses came against the Cincinnati Bengals, Arizona Cardinals and Baltimore Ravens. The Vikings are extremely banged up at key positions but have been playing through injuries all season.

The Lions have had their share of close games this season but haven’t scored more than 20 points in a game since Week 1. Detroit has been close to securing its first win, but when you score so few points the wiggle room to capture victory goes away.

Vikings at Lions odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Saturday at 9:30 a.m. ET.

Money line: Vikings -380 (bet $380 to win $100) | Lions +290 (bet $100 to win $290)
Against the spread (ATS): Vikings -7.5 (-110) | Lions +7.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 46.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

PLAY: Try our new, free daily Pick’em Challenge and win. Play now!

Vikings at Lions key injuries

Vikings

RB Dalvin Cook (shoulder) out
OT Christian Darrisaw (ankle) out
LB Eric Kendricks (biceps) questionable
LB Anthony Barr (knee/hamstring) questionable
CB Patrick Peterson (COVID) questionable

Lions

DE Trey Flowers (knee) out
RB D’Andre Swift (shoulder) out
LB Jalen Reeves-Maybin (shoulder) out
DE Michael Brockers (knee) questionable
OT Penei Sewell (illness/shoulder) questionable

WIN YOUR FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE!

For 25 years, TheHuddle.com has been helping fantasy players just like you win. This year, it’s your turn! Custom player rankings, tools and more to give you the edge over your competition.

Use code SBW21 to take 20% OFF a new subscription. Join now!

Vikings at Lions odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Vikings 27-17

Money line

When you have to bet almost four times the amount you will win, the bet is senseless. AVOID.

Against the spread

Whether you’re a fan of Kirk Cousins or not, you have to respect that he is 7-0 as a Viking against the Lions and gets amped up to return to his home state to play. The last couple of games have been very close (both two-point wins), but Minnesota has too many offensive weapons for the Lions to hold down.

WR Justin Jefferson had 100 yards in the first half against the Lions in October because Detroit’s defense simply didn’t have an answer. The line opened at 6.5 and would have been a lot more comfortable if had stayed there, but Minnesota has to win games against teams like Detroit to stay in the hunt for the last wild card spot.

Take the VIKINGS -7.5 (-110)

Over/Under

The Lions are the key to this one. The fact they have scored 19 or fewer points in each of their last 10 games doesn’t bode well. However, their defense has kept them in games. The total points scored in the last three Lions games have been 32, 23 and 30 — including road games at the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns.

Minnesota will likely run RB Alexander Mattison 20 or more times (as he has done in each of the last three games Cook has missed). This is a point that can be reached, but it may take a defensive touchdown to hit.

Take the UNDER 46.5 (-105)

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Access more NFL coverage:

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]