NFL Predictions: Packers a good bet to cover spread vs. Vikings? 12/23/17
Are the Packers a good bet to cover the point spread as an underdog on Saturday? They’ll host the Vikings at 8:30 p.m. ET.
The Odds: Vikings at Packers, 8:30 p.m. ET, Saturday
According to oddsmakers, the Vikings are 9-point road favorites to beat the Packers. As for the total, the number now sits at 41 points after hitting the board at 42.
Minnesota enters play with an 11-3 record and is 4-2 on the road. Green Bay, meanwhile, is 7-7 overall and 4-3 at home this year. From a betting standpoint, the Vikings have covered the spread in 10 of their 14 games on the year. The Packers are just 7-7 at the betting window.
Minnesota Vikings Injury Report
Minnesota remains banged-up along its offensive line. Offensive tackle Riley Reiff is questionable tonight with an ankle injury. Center Pat Elfein is probable, however, with a shoulder injury. Meanwhile, receiver Jarius Wright (Foot) is probable, as is linebacker Ben Gedeon (ankle). Safety Andrew Sendejo is also questionable with an ankle injury, while Tramaine Brock (foot) is out.
Green Bay Packers Injury Report
The biggest news for Green Bay is that Aaron Rodgers (shoulder) has been shut down for the rest of the season. Thus, Brent Hundley will re-enter the starting lineup and will play tonight against Minnesota.
Meanwhile, Damarious Randall (knee) is questionable, as is cornerback Davon House (shoulder). Jahri Evans is 50-50 to play as well due to a knee injury. Nick Perry (sholder) is doubtful and linebacker Jake Ryan (knee) is probable.
Our Prediction
I don’t feel comfortable laying nine points on a road team in a divisional game. No, the Packers aren’t as attractive tonight without Rodgers. But there was nothing to like about a banged-up Bucs team that had nothing to play for on Monday night, either. Yet Tampa Bay covered as a 7-point home dog versus an Atlanta team that had everything to play for that night.
Minnesota wins but Green Bay covers.
NFL Week 16 Prediction: Green Bay Packers +9
