Minnesota Vikings vs. Cincinnati Bengals 12/16/2023

Minnesota Vikings (7-6) vs. Cincinnati Bengals (7-6)

As the NFL season progresses into its crucial stages, Week 15 presents a compelling match-up between the Minnesota Vikings and the Cincinnati Bengals, both holding an even 7-6 record. Set for Saturday, December 16, 2023, this game promises to be a pivotal clash in the journey towards the playoffs. Taking place at the Paycor Stadium, and aired on NFLN, this encounter has caught the eye of many, including those looking for NFL free picks. Both teams, poised at a critical juncture of their season, will look to clinch a victory to boost their playoff hopes.

Minnesota Vikings enter this game with an array of offensive strategies, showing strength in both rushing and receiving departments. Alexander Mattison leads their rushing attack with 661 yards in 13 games at 3.9 average per rush; even without scoring a touchdown this season he has been vital. Jordan Addison has been an exceptional presence on defense, totalling 713 reception yards for 7 touchdowns at 54.8 average receiving yard per game over 13 matches; his explosive playmaking abilities and yards after catch are integral components to Minnesota’s offensive gameplan.

On the other hand, Cincinnati Bengals have employed an effective offensive approach. Joe Mixon has led their rushing attack with 689 yards rushed and 6 touchdowns scored over 12 games; his ability to find gaps and convert crucial first downs has been instrumental for Cincinnati. Meanwhile, Joe Burrow has frequently connected with Ja’Marr Chase who has amassed 1063 receiving yards with 7 touchdowns over 12 games; this connection has averaged 88.6 receiving yards per game and his ability to convert short catches into big gains has become key elements of Cincinnati’s offensive strategy.

Minnesota Vikings vs. Cincinnati Bengals Game Info

When:	Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET
Where:	Paycor Stadium
TV:	NFLN
Stream:	NFL Game Pass

Kirk Cousins QB vs. Joe Burrow QB

Kirk Cousins has been playing some of the best football of his 12-year career this season. He’s averaging 291 passing yards per game with 18 TDs and just 5 INTs, compiling an impressive 103.8 rating. Cousins excels throwing play-action and should find openings against Cincinnati’s mediocre pass defense.

Despite the Bengals’ recent slide, Joe Burrow remains a top-10 NFL QB this season. Like Cousins, he seamlessly operates his offense with pinpoint passing precision and excellent decision-making. Burrow’s 91 passer rating includes 15 TDs and 230 yards per game – posing a stiff test for Minnesota.

NFL Odds/Point Spread: Cincinnati Bengals -110, Total Odds: 40.5

The betting odds for this game are intriguing, with a very narrow point spread. The Vikings are at +0.5 -105, with a moneyline of -110, and the total at 40.5 over -112. The Bengals, slightly favored, are at -0.5 -116, with the same moneyline of -110 and a total of 40.5 under -111. These odds indicate a closely matched game, making it an interesting pick for bettors.

Minnesota Vikings Betting Trends

Minnesota rides a stellar 6-1-1 ATS run over its last 8 games. The team also boasts profitable 5-0-1 ATS and 6-2 SU marks across its previous 7 away matchups. Defensively stout all year, the Vikings have played 9 of their last 11 contests UNDER the total. With Cousins and Jefferson gelling nicely, this is not a Minnesota squad to sleep on – even on the road.

Cincinnati Bengals Betting Trends

Despite inconsistency and a tendency to play down to inferior opponents, Cincy has gone 6-3 both SU and ATS over its last 9 outings – proving its championship mettle. The Bengals also play extremely well at home, holding an impressive 11-3 SU record across their last 14 Paycor Stadium contests. Notably, in 8 home games versus Minnesota all-time, Cincinnati enjoys a lopsided 7-1 SU advantage.

Minnesota Vikings vs. Cincinnati Bengals 12/16/23 Betting Picks

In assessing both teams’ strengths and recent trends, this match-up appears evenly balanced. The Vikings’ road form against the spread is impressive, but their overall record against Cincinnati, particularly at Paycor Stadium, tilts the scales slightly in favor of the Bengals. With both teams fighting for a better playoff position, motivation will be at its peak.

When considering the better pick, the Bengals’ strong home record and their ability to score against Minnesota historically make them a slightly safer bet. However, the Vikings’ recent form cannot be overlooked, making them a tempting underdog pick. In terms of prop bets and over/under, the trends suggest leaning towards the under, considering both teams’ recent scoring patterns.

This prediction is based on the Bengals’ solid home record and their historical advantage over the Vikings. However, with both teams closely matched in terms of talent and current form, expect a tightly contested game that could be decided in the final moments. The top bookie software and betting trends point towards a narrow victory for Cincinnati, but as always in the NFL, surprises are never far away.