Green Bay Packers (7-8) vs. Minnesota Vikings (7-8)
At stake in their Week 17 matchup are playoff hopes of both Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings – both currently 7-8 – who could see this game decide their playoff destiny. Keeping this in mind, this match-up should be given prime consideration when placing NFL betting picks; any outcome could come down to luck and skill of both sides involved.
Green Bay Packers’ offense has seen consistently effective contributions from both its rushing and receiving segments this season. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has built strong rapport with wide receiver Romeo Doubs, who has amassed 646 receiving yards and eight touchdowns; in contrast, running game star AJ Dillon has amassed 586 yards while scoring two touchdowns as the primary rusher.
Conversely, Minnesota Vikings have fielded an efficient offensive unit. Their quarterback has proven his mettle by completing 69.5% of his attempts and amassing 2331 yards and 18 touchdowns through passing alone; one of his receivers added 826 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns as evidence of their aerial attack’s efficiency. Alexander Mattison led Minnesota in rushing yardage with 659 contributions; although he still has not found his way into the end zone.
Green Bay Packers vs. Minnesota Vikings Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 31, 2023 at 8:20 PM ET |
| Where: | U.S. Bank Stadium |
| TV: | NBC |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Jordan Love QB vs. Kirk Cousins QB
In just his second NFL season, Jordan Love has rapidly developed into a dangerous dual-threat quarterback. After Aaron Rodgers’ offseason departure, the pressure was on the young signal-caller to perform. He’s responded emphatically over the last two months. Love is delivering crisp, decisive throws from clean pockets. He’s also using his mobility to extend plays or take off when receivers are covered. Over his last 7 games, Love has accounted for 16 total touchdowns while limiting mistakes. Now he faces a fierce Vikings pass rush that could disrupt his rhythm. But if Love gets time, he’s proven capable of exploiting Minnesota’s vulnerable secondary.
On the other side, Kirk Cousins once again puts up gaudy passing statistics this year. He’s tossed multiple touchdowns in 7 of his last 8 complete contests. Cousins has developed undeniable chemistry with superstar Justin Jefferson and reliable veteran Adam Thielen. This talented pass-catching duo could feast on Green Bay’s league-worst pass defense. But Cousins lacks mobility and can be prone to mistakes against heavy pressure. The Packers bring ferocious front seven speed capable of forcing game-changing turnovers.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Minnesota Vikings -133, Total Odds: 45.5
The Vikings are slight favorites in this matchup, as reflected in the betting odds. The -2.5 point spread suggests that this could be a closely contested game. The total of 45.5 points indicates expectations of a moderately high-scoring game, which aligns with both teams’ recent performances.
Green Bay Packers Betting Trends
Green Bay is 4-2 straight up (SU) but just 2-4 against the spread (ATS) over its last 6 overall. This suggests oddsmakers have overvalued the Packers recently. Additionally, Green Bay has gone 1-5 ATS on the road this season. However, the Packers are 2-0 both SU and ATS in their past 2 games as underdogs. With Jordan Love gaining confidence, taking Green Bay with the points could offer value Sunday night.
Minnesota Vikings Betting Trends
Surprisingly, Minnesota has gone 6-2 ATS against conference opponents despite its up-and-down campaign. The Vikings also play significantly better at home, outscoring visitors by over a touchdown per game in U.S. Bank Stadium. But Minnesota is just 1-4 SU over its previous 5 contests. Kirk Cousins’ offense has managed 20 points or fewer in all four Vikings losses. Minnesota may struggle to separate from Green Bay if it endures another cold spell.
Green Bay Packers vs. Minnesota Vikings 12/31/23 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, this game appears to be a tight matchup with potential surprises. The Vikings, with their home-field advantage and slightly better overall performance, seem to be the safer bet. However, the Packers’ recent offensive form cannot be overlooked, making them a potential upset pick.
In terms of betting, the Vikings might be the better overall pick, especially considering their performance against NFC teams. Prop bets on key players like Jordan Addison for touchdowns could be interesting. For over/under bets, leaning towards the OVER might be prudent, given both teams’ offensive capabilities. This game is also drawing significant attention on the best online casino platforms.
