Minnesota Vikings Betting Odds

Team Overview

The Minnesota Vikings enter the 2024/2025 NFL season in a transitional phase, following a 7-10 finish last year. With the departure of long-time quarterback Kirk Cousins, the Vikings are turning to either Sam Darnold or J.J. McCarthy to lead the offense. Head coach Kevin O’Connell, now in his third season, is tasked with steering the team back to playoff contention in the competitive NFC North. The Vikings are looking to leverage their mix of veteran talent and promising newcomers to improve their standing and make a push for the postseason.

Offensive Line Analysis

The Vikings’ offensive line is a quietly solid unit, ranking fourth in the NFL in pass-blocking grade last season. Anchored by the tackle duo of Christian Darrisaw and Brian O’Neill, the line provides a strong foundation for the Vikings’ offense. The return of all five starters from last season offers continuity, which is crucial as the team transitions to a new quarterback. The line’s performance will be vital in protecting the quarterback and enabling running back Aaron Jones, a key offseason addition, to excel in the ground game. With a renewed emphasis on the run, the offensive line’s ability to open lanes will be a critical factor in the team’s success.

Defensive Line Analysis

The Vikings’ defensive line has been a point of concern, ranking 31st in pass-rush grade last season. Despite the presence of standout edge rusher Danielle Hunter, the unit struggled to generate consistent pressure. The addition of veteran Jerry Tillery and rookies like Dallas Turner aims to bolster the pass rush and improve overall defensive performance. The line’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses will be crucial as the Vikings look to improve their defensive rankings and support a potentially young and developing offense.

2024 NFL Season

Week 11 Review – vs. Tennessee Titans

The Vikings secured their third consecutive victory, defeating the Tennessee Titans 23-13 on Sunday and improving their record to 8-2. Quarterback Sam Darnold bounced back from recent struggles, throwing for 246 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for a score. The Vikings’ defense was equally impressive, recording five sacks and sealing the game with a late interception by Harrison Smith.

This win maintained the Vikings’ perfect 5-0 record against AFC opponents this season. The team showed resilience after an early fumble, scoring 16 unanswered points to take a commanding 16-3 lead at halftime. Despite a brief Titans comeback attempt in the third quarter, the Vikings’ defense held strong, limiting Tennessee to just 13 points. Minnesota will look to extend their winning streak as they prepare for their next matchup with Chicago Bears.

Week 10 Review – vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

The Minnesota Vikings narrowly defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 12-7 on Sunday, improving their record to 7-2. The Vikings’ defense was stellar, limiting the Jaguars to just 143 total yards. John Parker Romo made his NFL debut, kicking four field goals, which proved crucial in securing the win despite three interceptions thrown by quarterback Sam Darnold.

The Vikings took the lead with Romo’s third field goal, showcasing their ability to capitalize on defensive stops. Minnesota aims to build on this victory as they travel to Tennessee next Sunday to face the Titans.

Week 9 Review – vs. Indianapolis Colts

The Minnesota Vikings secured a hard-fought 21-13 victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday night, improving their record to 6-2. Sam Darnold overcame early struggles to throw three second-half touchdown passes, including a game-sealing score to Josh Oliver. Justin Jefferson shined with 137 receiving yards, while the Vikings’ defense played a crucial role, limiting the Colts’ offense and forcing key turnovers.

Despite the win, the Vikings faced challenges, including three turnovers by Darnold and four sacks allowed. The team also dealt with injury concerns, as linebacker Blake Cashman missed his third straight game with a toe injury. The Vikings will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for a road game against the Jacksonville Jaguars next Sunday, aiming to extend their winning streak and solidify their position in the NFC playoff race.

Week 8 Review – vs. Los Angeles Rams

The Minnesota Vikings fell to the Los Angeles Rams 30-20 on Thursday Night Football, dropping to 5-2. Sam Darnold threw for 240 yards and two touchdowns, with Justin Jefferson tallying 115 receiving yards. However, the Vikings’ defense struggled against Matthew Stafford, who connected with Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua for four touchdowns.

The loss was further marred by an injury to left tackle Christian Darrisaw, who exited with a knee issue. Minnesota’s offense stalled in the second half, managing only two field goals. The Vikings will aim to regroup and address their defensive concerns as they prepare for a Sunday night clash with the Indianapolis Colts on November 3, hoping to maintain their standing in the NFC North.

Week 7 Review – vs. Detroit Lions

The Minnesota Vikings suffered their first loss of the season, falling 31-29 to the Detroit Lions last weekend. Sam Darnold led the Vikings with a solid performance, but a crucial interception proved costly. Despite a late surge, including a fumble return touchdown by Ivan Pace Jr., the Lions secured the win with a last-second field goal by rookie kicker Jake Bates.

The loss drops the Vikings to 5-1, while the Lions improve to 5-1 and take sole possession of first place in the NFC North. Minnesota will look to bounce back next week against the Los Angeles Rams in another crucial matchup, while monitoring the status of linebacker Blake Cashman, who missed the game due to a toe injury.

Week 5 Review – vs. New York Jets

The Minnesota Vikings secured a hard-fought 20-17 victory over the New York Jets on Sunday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, improving their record to an impressive 5-0. Despite the absence of star receiver Justin Jefferson due to a hamstring injury, Sam Darnold led the Vikings’ offense effectively, throwing for 218 yards and two touchdowns.

Minnesota’s defense played a crucial role in the win, intercepting Jets quarterback Zach Wilson twice and sacking him four times. Jordan Hicks was a standout performer, recording 10 tackles and a key interception in the fourth quarter. The Vikings’ special teams also contributed significantly, with Greg Joseph kicking two field goals, including the game-winner with just 1:12 remaining. With this victory, the Vikings maintain their perfect record and continue to lead the NFC North as they head into their bye week.

Week 4 Review – vs. Green Bay Packers

The Minnesota Vikings maintained their perfect start to the season with a thrilling 31-29 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday at Lambeau Field. Quarterback Sam Darnold led the charge, throwing three touchdown passes, including two to Jordan Addison, as the Vikings built a commanding 28-point lead in the first half. This win marks Minnesota’s best start since 2016 and keeps them atop the NFC North standings at 4-0.

Despite a strong comeback attempt from the Packers, led by Jordan Love—who returned from injury to throw for 389 yards and four touchdowns—the Vikings held on for the win. Love’s performance was marred by three interceptions, which proved costly as Minnesota capitalized on early mistakes. The Packers closed the gap with a late touchdown but couldn’t recover an onside kick in the final seconds. With this victory, the Vikings continue to defy expectations and look ahead to their next game against the New York Jets in London.

Week 3 Review – vs. Houston Texans

The Minnesota Vikings continued their dominant start to the season, crushing the Houston Texans 34-7 at U.S. Bank Stadium on Sunday. Sam Darnold led the charge, matching his career high with four touchdown passes as he connected with Justin Jefferson, Aaron Jones, Jalen Nailor, and Johnny Mundt. Jones was a dual threat, adding 102 rushing yards on 19 carries to his receiving touchdown.

The Vikings’ defense proved to be the real story of the game, intercepting C.J. Stroud twice and sacking him four times. Jonathan Greenard, facing his former team, recorded three sacks against Stroud. Minnesota never trailed, building a commanding 24-7 halftime lead and cruising to victory. With this win, the Vikings improve to 3-0 on the season, outscoring opponents 91-21 through three games. They now look ahead to a crucial divisional matchup against the Green Bay Packers next Sunday.

Week 2 Review – vs. San Francisco 49ers

The Minnesota Vikings secured a hard-fought 23-17 victory over the San Francisco 49ers last Sunday, improving their season record to 2-0. Sam Darnold led the Vikings’ offense, throwing for 268 yards and two touchdowns, including a spectacular 97-yard connection with Justin Jefferson. However, it was the Vikings’ defense that truly shined, sacking 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy six times and forcing two crucial turnovers that were converted into touchdowns.

Blake Cashman anchored the defensive effort with 13 tackles, while Patrick Jones II contributed two of the team’s six sacks. The Vikings never trailed in the game, effectively containing the 49ers’ offense despite Purdy’s 319 passing yards. With this win, Minnesota sets the stage for an intriguing matchup next week against the Houston Texans, who are also off to a 2-0 start after defeating the Indianapolis Colts.

Week 1 Review – vs. New York Giants

The Minnesota Vikings kicked off their 2024 season with a dominant 28-6 victory over the New York Giants on September 9. Quarterback Sam Darnold made an impressive debut, completing 19 of 24 passes for 208 yards and two touchdown passes, including a three-yard strike to Justin Jefferson. The defense also excelled, with linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel’s one-handed interception return for a touchdown highlighting their strong performance.

This weekend, the Vikings will face a challenging matchup against the San Francisco 49ers, who secured a win over the New York Jets in their opener. Darnold’s performance will be crucial as the Vikings aim to build on their momentum. The team will also keep an eye on wide receiver Jordan Addison, who left the game with an ankle injury but is expected to be fine. This upcoming game will be a key test for Minnesota as they look to solidify their standing in the NFC North.

Odds to Win Division and Super Bowl

– Odds to Win NFC North: +1800, indicating they are considered underdogs within the division.

– Odds to Win Super Bowl: +80000, suggesting a 0.1% chance, placing them among the long shots for the championship.

Predictions

– Overall Record: The Vikings are projected to finish with a 6-11 record, reflecting the challenges of a tough schedule and the transition at quarterback.

– Playoff Chances: With odds of +2200 to make the playoffs, the Vikings face a challenging path to postseason contention, requiring significant improvement and consistency.

– Super Bowl Chances: Winning the Super Bowl is unlikely this season, given their long odds and the need for substantial growth across the roster.

In summary, the Minnesota Vikings are entering the 2024/2025 season with a focus on rebuilding and addressing key areas of weakness. The team’s success will largely depend on the performance of their new quarterback and the effectiveness of their revamped defensive line. While immediate playoff contention may be challenging, the Vikings are laying the groundwork for future success as they navigate this transitional period.