Simulation Picks
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Maximize Your Odds of Winning with SportsLine Model and Our Top-Rated Picks!
Maximize Your Odds of Winning with SportsLine Model and Our Top-Rated Picks!
Understanding Public and Money
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Expert Picks
The Vikings are reportedly sitting several starters, including Kirk Cousins, as they’re locked into the sixth seed. The line has moved enough that the Bears are now laying 3, but it seems unlikely that Sean Mannion vs. Chicago’s D in his second career start is going to go well for Minnesota. The Bears could finish the season on a high note at 8-8. Lay the points.
The line plummeted by nearly a touchdown when Minnesota became boxed into the No. 6 seed. A greater shift would have been justified. It would be folly for the Vikings to play their offensive centerpiece, RB Dalvin Cook (shoulder), and backup Alexander Mattison (ankle). With no ground game on which to lean, QB Kirk Cousins should get lifted early. The Bears, after dealing with white-hot Green Bay and Kansas City the past two weeks, get a scheduling break and might be motivated to finish at .500.
This NFC North battle ultimately will come down to Mitch Trubisky against the Vikings' defense. All things considered, Minnesota's offense eventually should be able to score points against Chicago's defense. But with the Bears' QB situation and lack of a consistent running game, it is hard for me to envision that being a similar case for Chicago's offense.
With the Vikings locked into the sixth seed, expect them to rest key players on the offensive side. This line is saying as much, as the Vikings were -7 on the lookahead, but I still think there's value on the Chicago side. The Vikings offense hasn't been able to move the ball on the Bears the last two seasons even when playing all-out, averaging 218 yards in their last three matchups. This is a key game for Chicago to avoid a losing record in what has been a disappointing year. I expect them to come out fired up in this spot, and they'll get the win when it's all said and done.