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Vikings, Packers Clash with Playoff Stakes on the Line

Divisional bragging rights will be on the line when the Packers and the Vikings meet at U.S. Bank Stadium.

(Photo by Getty Images) Justin Jefferson

Green Bay (11-4-0) at Minnesota (13-2-0)

  • When: Dec 29 2024, 4:25 PM
  • Where: U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN
  • Where to watch: FOX

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings
Moneyline

Green Bay Packers   -105
Minnesota Vikings   -115

Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings
Point Spread

Green Bay Packers   1.0 (-115)
Minnesota Vikings   -1.0 (-105)

Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings
Total

Over   49.0 (-105)
Under   49.0 (-115)

Key Players:
Green Bay: Jordan Love
Minnesota: Sam Darnold

Team Stats

Packers   Vikings
11-4 Record 13-2
5-2 Away & Home 7-1
9-6-0 ATS 10-4-1
7-8-0 O/U 6-9-0

Last Matchup:
MIN 31-29, September 29th, 2024

Game Preview

The Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers square off Sunday in Minneapolis in a matchup that carries major playoff implications for both teams. Minnesota is a 1.0-point favorite with the total set at 49, making this NFC North rivalry a prime betting opportunity.

Minnesota Vikings: Riding High and Eyeing the Division Title

The Vikings (13-2) have been on fire, entering this game with an eight-game winning streak. They’ve been dominant in the NFC North, and a win here would keep them in the hunt for the division title with Detroit. Quarterback Sam Darnold has been the driving force behind Minnesota’s success, throwing for 3,776 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions while posting a 105.4 passer rating in his first season with the team.

Darnold’s top target is star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who has 92 catches for 1,387 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. Complementing Jefferson is Jordan Addison, who has added 806 yards and eight scores. Former Green Bay standout Aaron Jones has also been a valuable asset in the backfield with 1,046 rushing yards and five touchdowns.

Minnesota’s defense has been solid, but they’ll be without cornerback Fabian Moreau due to a hip injury. Linebacker Ivan Pace Sr. (hamstring) is questionable but participated fully in practice, signaling he could be available.

Betting Angle: The Vikings’ balanced offense and home-field advantage make them a strong pick to cover the slim spread, especially with Green Bay missing key players.

Green Bay Packers: Fighting for Positioning

The Packers (11-4) are already in the playoffs but are looking to solidify their seeding. Quarterback Jordan Love has shown steady improvement, throwing for 3,135 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions this season. Love has spread the ball effectively, with Jayden Reed (803 yards, six touchdowns) and Christian Watson (620 yards, two touchdowns) leading the receiving corps.

Running back Josh Jacobs has been a consistent force, rushing for 1,216 yards and 13 touchdowns, but Green Bay’s offense could face challenges against Minnesota’s formidable defense. The Packers are also dealing with significant injuries, including the continued absence of top cornerback Jaire Alexander and offensive lineman Andre Dillard. Christian Watson is questionable with a knee issue, which could further hamper the offense.

Betting Angle: While the Packers have been competitive, their injuries and defensive concerns make it tough to back them against a surging Vikings squad.

Key Matchups to Watch:

– Justin Jefferson vs. Packers Secondary:
With Jaire Alexander sidelined, Jefferson should have a favorable matchup and is poised for a big day.

– Jordan Love vs. Vikings Defense:
Love has been steady, but Minnesota’s defense has shown the ability to pressure quarterbacks and force mistakes.

– Darnold and Jefferson’s Chemistry:
The Darnold-Jefferson connection has been electric all season and will be a key factor in Minnesota’s offensive success.

Predictions and Best Bets:

– Spread: Vikings -1
Minnesota’s momentum, home advantage, and Green Bay’s injury woes make the Vikings the stronger pick to cover.

– Total: Over 49
Both offenses have the potential to score, and with playoff implications, expect a high-energy game with plenty of points.

– Player Prop to Watch: Justin Jefferson Over 95.5 Receiving Yards
With Alexander out, Jefferson should feast on Green Bay’s secondary and easily clear this mark.

Conclusion:

This NFC North clash has all the makings of a thrilling game, but the Vikings have the edge with their balanced attack and home-field advantage. The Packers’ injuries and defensive limitations leave them vulnerable, giving Minnesota a clear path to a ninth straight win. Back the Vikings to cover and lean toward the over in a game with playoff intensity and high stakes.

Handicappers Picks – Join for Free

NFL Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: Minnesota 27-23
expert Pick: Minnesota -1 (-105) & Over 49 (-105)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $381

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