Minnesota (14-3-0) at LA Rams (10-7-0)
- When: Jan 13 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ
- Where to watch: ABC/ESPN
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Minnesota Vikings @ Los Angeles Rams
Point Spread
Minnesota Vikings -2.5 (-115)
Los Angeles Rams 2.5 (-105)
Minnesota Vikings @ Los Angeles Rams
Total
Over 47.5 (-115)
Under 47.5 (-105)
Minnesota Vikings @ Los Angeles Rams
Moneyline
Minnesota Vikings -135
Los Angeles Rams +115
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Key Players:
Minnesota: Sam Darnold
LA Rams:
Matthew Stafford
Team Stats
| Vikings | Rams | |
| 14-3 | Record | 10-7 |
| 6-2 | Away | 5-3 |
| 11-5-1 | ATS | 9-8-0 |
| 7-10-0 | O/U | 8-9-0 |
Last Matchup:
LAR 30-20, October 24th, 2024
Game Preview
The Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams meet in an unexpected neutral-site wild-card clash at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Due to wildfires near Los Angeles, the NFL moved the Rams’ home playoff game to a safer location, eliminating any home-field advantage.
Betting Breakdown
Minnesota (-2.5) enters the matchup as a slight favorite, and the total set at 47.5 hints at a potentially close, high-scoring affair. The Vikings, with a 14-3 record, earned the No. 5 seed despite trailing the NFC North champion Detroit Lions, while the 10-7 Rams secured the NFC West crown.
Key Storylines and Player Props
Vikings Offense: Darnold in the Spotlight
Pro Bowl QB Sam Darnold has powered the Vikings all season, throwing for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns. His chemistry with star wideout Justin Jefferson, who ranks second in the NFL with 1,533 receiving yards, has been a major reason for Minnesota’s success. Bettors eyeing player props should look at Jefferson’s over on receiving yards (likely set around 90.5), as he’s been a target magnet all year.
Darnold’s mobility could be worth considering too. Despite his 12 interceptions and a questionable quad injury, he participated fully in practice, signaling he’s ready to play. If you’re looking for a sneaky play, consider Darnold’s rushing attempts or rushing yards prop if it’s set low.
Running Game Questions for Minnesota
RB Aaron Jones, who posted a career-high 1,138 rushing yards, practiced fully after nursing a quad issue. His usage could be high given the Rams’ defensive line’s youth and inexperience without Aaron Donald. Watch for rushing yards props for Jones, especially with backup Cam Akers listed as questionable.
Rams: Stafford’s Veteran Leadership
Despite an injury-plagued season, QB Matthew Stafford remains the anchor for the Rams’ offense, throwing for 3,762 yards and 20 touchdowns. If Stafford gets protection, the Rams’ passing attack—led by Puka Nacua (990 receiving yards) and Cooper Kupp (710 yards)—can put up points. However, Kupp has struggled recently, managing just 54 yards total in his last three games. His receiving yards prop under could be a value pick.
Defensive Props and Matchups
The Rams’ young defensive line—featuring Byron Young and Kobie Turner—has stepped up admirably in Donald’s absence. However, they’ll need to apply pressure to disrupt Darnold and keep the Vikings’ balanced offense off-rhythm. Look for sack props for players like Byron Young, who has been making an impact.
Minnesota’s defense has been inconsistent but boasts playmakers who could force Stafford into mistakes. If you’re betting turnover props, Stafford’s interception line could offer value given his penchant for forcing throws under pressure.
Recent Form and Betting Trends
Vikings: After a nine-game winning streak, Minnesota dropped a disappointing 31-9 loss to Detroit in Week 18. Head coach Kevin O’Connell emphasized confidence in Darnold, expecting him to bounce back after a season-low 166 passing yards.
Rams: Los Angeles recovered from a 1-4 start to win nine of their final 11 games. Despite clinching the NFC West, they dropped their final game to Seattle and were forced into this tough matchup against Minnesota.
The Rams’ offense sputtered late in the season, averaging just 14.7 points over three games before their defensive resurgence helped secure multiple close wins. If the Rams’ offense stalls again, expect McVay to lean heavily on Kyren Williams, who rushed for 1,299 yards and 14 touchdowns this season.
Best Bets and Predictions
Spread Bet: The Vikings’ offensive balance and experience with Darnold at the helm make them the better pick to cover the -2.5 spread.
Total Bet: Both offenses have firepower, but defensive playmakers could create key stops. Look for the under 47.5 points, as nerves and the neutral-site factor could slow things down.
Player Prop Predictions:
Justin Jefferson over 90.5 receiving yards
Aaron Jones over 60.5 rushing yards
Matthew Stafford over 0.5 interceptions
The Rams’ resilience and experience keep them in the game, but Minnesota’s offensive weapons should secure their first playoff win since 2019 in a hard-fought battle.
NFL Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Minnesota 24-20
Expert Pick: Minnesota -2½ (-115) & Under 47½ (-105)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $365
- NFL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
