We are hours away from the high-stakes NFC Wildcard matchup between the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams. The stage is set for a thrilling game on Monday Night Football, as these two teams face off for the second time this season.
Vikings vs. Rams: A Look Back at Their Last Matchup
The Vikings, who suffered just three losses this season, encountered one of those defeats in Week 8 at the hands of the Rams, losing 30-20. This Wildcard game marks the first postseason meeting between these teams since 2000. Historically, Minnesota leads the all-time series 27-19-2, but the Rams have won the last three encounters, including two at Sofi Stadium.
NFC Wildcard Odds – Vikings vs. Rams
Minnesota Vikings: -1.5 (-105)
Moneyline: -118
Los Angeles Rams: +1.5 (-115)
Moneyline: +100
Over/Under: 47.5 (-105/-115)
Why The Vikings Could Cover the Spread/Win
In their last matchup, the Vikings were hurt by bad officiating and struggled to establish their running game. However, this time around, they’re getting a key player back: TJ Hockenson, who missed the first game. Hockenson’s return gives Sam Darnold another reliable target besides Justin Jefferson, making Minnesota’s offense even more dangerous. The Rams have been vulnerable to tight ends, ranking fourth in most receiving yards allowed to the position.
Despite a solid performance from Darnold earlier this season, where he threw for 240 yards and two touchdowns, the Vikings couldn’t convert on third downs and made costly penalties, contributing to their defeat. Aaron Jones, who rushed for over 1,100 yards this season, also struggled against the Rams, running for just 58 yards in that game.
For the Vikings to cover, they need Jones to find more running lanes and avoid penalties. On defense, they must limit the impact of Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, who torched them earlier this season.
Why The Rams Could Cover the Spread/Win
Sean McVay and the Rams know that their early-season win doesn’t guarantee success this time around, but they are poised to replicate their winning formula. Matthew Stafford had an impressive showing in the first game, passing for 279 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception. Stafford’s offensive line gave him plenty of time to operate, while Kyren Williams was effective on the ground, rushing for 97 yards on 23 attempts.
Meanwhile, Nacua and Kupp were crucial to the Rams’ success, with Nacua racking up 106 yards and Kupp scoring a touchdown. The Rams also neutralized Jones’ running game and pressured Darnold, forcing mistakes and capitalizing on penalties to set back the Vikings.
To win, the Rams need to keep their offense rolling by running the ball efficiently and continuing to get the ball to Kupp and Nacua. On defense, they must force turnovers and capitalize on any mistakes the Vikings make.
Final Prediction & Pick
The Vikings have been strong against the spread, with an 11-5-1 record this season. Minnesota also boasts a solid 4-3-1 road record, while the Rams have been inconsistent at home with a 4-5 record against the spread. Despite the Rams’ victory earlier in the season, the Vikings were held back by a combination of penalties and missed opportunities. With Hockenson back in the fold and Darnold at the helm, I believe Minnesota will cover the spread in this postseason matchup.
Final Prediction & Pick: Minnesota Vikings -1.5 (-105)
