The Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers are facing off in Week 17 with plenty of postseason implications on the line. Unlike in most recent history, it’s Minnesota that has the division on lock and the No. 1 seed on the line, while Green Bay is fighting to stay alive in the playoff race.
Let’s dive into the top NFL betting points and storylines in this Vikings vs. Packers prediction. Betting odds are from our friends over at DraftKings Sportsbook and are updated as of December 27.
Vikings vs. Packers Odds
- Spread
Packers -3 - Moneyline
Packers -175, Vikings +150 - Over/Under
47
Vikings vs. Packers Prediction
Another week, another “by the skin of their teeth” Vikings win. Minnesota once again managed a one-score victory, this time in Week 16 over the New York Giants, making history in the process. Minnesota’s roster and (somehow) QB Kirk Cousins, have that “clutch gene” this year, and the team is in peak position for top seeding in the NFC as a result.
In fact, the Vikings still have a technical shot at the No. 1 seed, though clinching it would require a slip-up from the Philadelphia Eagles. During its historical run, Minnesota has found Pro Bowl-caliber play from Kirk Cousins and exceptional play from All-World wideout Justin Jefferson. Tight end T.J. Hockenson has been a revelation, while Adam Thielen and K.J. Osborn have been reliable complementary weapons, as usual.
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It’s the Vikes’ defense that has been the liability. The team’s defensive unit is bottom-three in many statistical categories, including points allowed, total yards allowed, and passing yards allowed. In reality, it’s this Swiss cheese defense that has given the offense such frequent opportunities to mount comebacks and highlight-producing wins.
Aaron Rodgers will certainly look to take advantage of such a pliable defense, and breakout rookie Christian Watson and the rest of Green Bay’s weapons are finally finding some rhythm.
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Watson’s availability against Minnesota is in doubt after the first-year speedster suffered a hip injury during the team’s Week 16 win over the Miami Dolphins, and if he’s ultimately ruled out, extra weight will be put on the shoulders of fellow rookie Romeo Doubs and veterans Randall Cobb and Allen Lazard. As of this writing, Watson is considered day-to-day.
After taking down Miami, Green Bay has a 27% chance of making the playoffs, though those odds increase all the way to 89% if the Packers run the table over their final two contests. Those matchups include this Week 17 game against the Vikings and a Week 18 showdown with the division rival Detroit Lions. Detroit will also likely be vying for a final postseason spot in the regular season finale.
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Minnesota has been the better team this year, and of that, there’s little doubt. And it’s not like Rodgers has been his vintage self. But there’s just something about December Aaron Rodgers, especially when he’s got his back against the wall, that’s tough to doubt. And apparently, Vegas agrees.
Minnesota has a better cast of weapons, a far better record, and, statistically, the better-performing quarterback. But Green Bay has a pissed-off Rodgers with everything on the line. And given the Vikings’ defensive struggles, I’m expecting the future Hall of Fame quarterback to come out swinging and will Green Bay to a victory.
Vikings vs. Packers Score Prediction
Packers 27, Vikings 24
