Minnesota Vikings (4-4) vs. Atlanta Falcons (4-4)
In a captivating matchup set for Week 9 of the NFL season, both the Minnesota Vikings and Atlanta Falcons, with identical 4-4 standings, are poised to vie for superiority as they step onto the gridiron. The outcome of this duel could significantly influence the trajectory for the rest of their season. As both teams brace for a showdown at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, enthusiasts are eager to observe the culmination of strategies, raw talent, and determination. With the race to the playoffs intensifying, getting expert NFL picks becomes all the more invaluable.
Turning our attention to the Vikings, their rushing offense led by Alexander Mattison has been steady, if not spectacular. Mattison has churned out 359 yards over seven appearances, though he hasn’t found the endzone as a rusher. On the receiving front, Justin Jefferson is undeniably the shining star. Having played only five games, Jefferson boasts an impressive 571 receiving yards, averaging an astounding 114.2 yards per game. His explosive plays, as evidenced by his 14 receptions of 20+ yards, render him a considerable threat that the Falcons’ secondary must account for.
For the Falcons, Bijan Robinson is the anchor of their ground attack. He’s managed to amass 404 yards at a commendable average of 5 yards per attempt. Meanwhile, in the aerial game, Drake London stands out with 383 receiving yards across seven games, ensuring that the Vikings’ defense will have its hands full trying to contain him.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Atlanta Falcons Game Info
| When: | Sunday, November 5, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Mercedes-Benz Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Kirk Cousins QB vs. Desmond Ridder QB
Kirk Cousins, the Vikings’ seasoned signal-caller, has had a commendable season. Across seven games, he’s thrown for 2057 yards, marking an average of nearly 294 yards per game. Moreover, with a completion percentage approaching 69%, and a remarkable 16 touchdowns to just 5 interceptions, Cousins has showcased his veteran expertise, delivering precision and avoiding costly errors. His passer rating of 101.7 underlines his consistent performance.
Contrastingly, Desmond Ridder of the Falcons has shown promise but with room for improvement. Accumulating 1630 passing yards over seven games, Ridder’s stats might seem less flashy compared to Cousins, but his potential is evident. A passer rating of 84.1, combined with an equal number of touchdowns and interceptions, indicates areas where he can refine his game.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Atlanta Falcons -115, Total Odds: 41.5
With minimal point spread and closely matched Moneyline odds, this fixture is shaping up to be a nail-biter. The narrow margins underscore the competitive nature of this matchup, and bettors would be wise to consider the recent form and head-to-head stats when placing wagers.
Minnesota Vikings Betting Trends
The Vikings are on a commendable run. Their 4-1 record ATS in their last 5 games highlights their capability to outperform expectations. Furthermore, with the total going UNDER in their last 6 games, defensive strategies seem to be paying off. Their head-to-head stats against the Falcons further tilt the scale in their favor, boasting a 4-1 SU in their last 5 encounters.
Atlanta Falcons Betting Trends
The Falcons, however, present a mixed bag. A concerning 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games indicates struggles against the spread. Yet, their strength at home, with a 5-1 SU record, suggests the Mercedes-Benz Stadium might just be their fortress. Additionally, games involving the Falcons tend to be low-scoring affairs, with the total going UNDER in most of their recent matchups, especially against the Vikings.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Atlanta Falcons 11/5/23 Betting Picks
Based on recent performances and betting trends, this contest is likely to be a defensive masterclass with limited scoring. The Vikings seem to have an edge, especially considering their recent form against the Falcons.
However, the Falcons’ home advantage can’t be ignored. The close betting odds suggest that this might come down to a last-minute play or decision. For those diving into online betting, considering prop bets around defensive statistics or opting for the UNDER might be worthwhile strategies.
Free Pick and Prediction: Minnesota Vikings 20, Atlanta Falcons 17
