Minnesota Vikings vs Chicago Bears Betting Picks, Lines, Odds,& Predictions
Only a couple of weeks ago, the Vikings (3-5 SU, 5-3 ATS) had three wins less than the Bears (5-4 SU, 5-4 ATS) and seemed to be heading for a season of mediocrity. Fast-forward three weeks, and Minnesota, with a win at Soldier Field, has a chance to come within one game from their divisional rivals as the Packers seem to be running away as the NFC North winners. The Vikings also have a game in hand and could easily benefit from Chicago’s three-game losing streak and come back into playoff contention.
Minnesota Vikings vs Chicago Bears Betting Line Movement
After opening as -2 favorites, the home team’s odds unsurprisingly slid a couple of points, and the Bears are now +3 underdogs. The total line also saw a significant drop, moving from 46.5 all the way to 43.5 or 43 depending on the sportsbook.
Notes On The Minnesota Vikings
After posting back-to-back wins in the past two weeks and going 4-1 against the spread in the last five games, the Vikings have left the fans wondering where has this version of the team been all season. Most of their recent success has come on the back of the excellent rushing offense led by Dalvin cook who’s been playing out of his mind lately. Their running offense is now third in the league averaging 160.4 yards on the ground per game. The attack through the air still leaves a lot to be desired as the Vikings are 25th in the league in that department. The defense has also been less than reliable allowing 40 or more points twice already.
As far as the fantasy goes, it’s hard to look beyond Dalvin Cook at this moment. He will face one of the league’s toughest defenses on Monday, and he did go for only 35 yards last time the two teams met, but after six touchdowns in two games you have to ride his impressive form. QB Kirk Cousins have been asked to less work as Minnesota’s rushing offense keeps humming and we can expect something similar this week. Especially since he’ll be under a lot of pressure from Chicago’s defense. The same logic applies to WRs Adam Thielen and Justin Jefferson.
Notes On The Chicago Bears
The last three Chicago’s games have shown that relying solely on the defense will only get you so far. Their offense seems outdated and stagnant and there’s not much the defense can do for you if you’re averaging less than 17 points as the Bears have over the last three games. In addition, their offensive line is depleted by injuries and QB Nick Foles seems to be struggling in Matt Nagy’s system. It’s been rumored that Nagy will give up play-calling duties on Monday, but nothing has yet been confirmed.
A series of terrible performances by Nick Foles makes it difficult to have faith in him and also most of his receivers when it comes to putting them in your fantasy lineup. However, with Minnesota’s secondary being the worst part of their defense, you may try Darnell Mooney in your flex. Mooney had team-high 11 targets last week and produced steady displays all season with 364 yards total.
Monday Night Football Betting Pick & Prediction: Minnesota Vikings Vikings -3
We would prefer the line a bit lower as it was earlier this week, but -3 still offers enough value, at least until Chicago’s offense begins showing some signs of life.
