NFC North rivals clash for the first time this season as the Minnesota Vikings (3-0, 3-0 ATS) visit the Green Bay Packers (2-1, 2-1 ATS) on Sunday afternoon. Last season, these teams traded victories, each securing a win on the opponent’s turf. Minnesota comes off a commanding 34-7 home win over Houston as 1.5-point underdogs, while Green Bay recently triumphed over Tennessee 30-14, also as underdogs (2.5 points). The Packers enter this matchup as 3-point home favorites. The game kicks off at 1:00 EST from Lambeau Field and will be broadcast regionally on CBS.
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Vikings Defy Expectations
The Minnesota Vikings were anticipated to have a rebuilding season after losing Kirk Cousins and JJ McCarthy, leading to Sam Darnold stepping into the starting quarterback role. Instead of faltering, the Vikings have emerged as the only undefeated team in the NFC North, boasting significant victories over both the 49ers and Texans. With both wins at home, Minnesota now faces a formidable challenge at Lambeau Field, marking their toughest road test of the year. In their last game, Darnold showcased his skills with four touchdown passes and no interceptions, while Aaron Jones contributed 102 rushing yards against Houston.
Darnold now holds the 11th best odds for the MVP award, a remarkable rise considering he was a backup last season. He has accumulated 657 passing yards across three games, with an impressive 8-2 touchdown-to-interception ratio, leading the league with eight touchdown passes. Facing his former team, running back Aaron Jones has 228 rushing yards and one touchdown this season. Darnold’s performance is supported by star receiver Justin Jefferson, who has racked up 273 yards and three touchdowns. Jalen Nailor also stands out as a secondary threat, contributing 106 yards and three touchdowns.
The Vikings’ defense has been a standout, allowing just 10.0 points per game, ranking second in the league. Defensive coordinator Todd Bowles has effectively used varied blitzes and coverages to keep opposing quarterbacks on their toes. Linebacker Blake Cashman leads the team with 23 tackles and one sack. The Vikings have achieved 16 sacks this season, with Jonathan Greenard leading the charge with four sacks. Their secondary is bolstered by five interceptions from different players, including veteran safety Harrison Smith.
Injury Report:
Questionable: WR Jordan Addison, OT Christian Darrisaw, C Garrett Bradbury, LB Ivan Pace Jr.
Tight end TJ Hockenson remains sidelined, aiming for a return in Week 7.
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Packers Adapt Under Pressure
With starting quarterback Jordan Love sidelined due to a knee injury, the Green Bay Packers have relied on Malik Willis in their last two games. Once a highly regarded prospect, Willis struggled to find his footing with the Titans before being traded to the Packers for a seventh-round pick. He has stepped up effectively, leading Green Bay to victories against the Colts and Titans. Much of the credit for his success goes to head coach Matt LaFleur, who has tailored an offense that suits Willis’s strengths.
Jordan Love’s availability remains uncertain, with Coach LaFleur indicating it could be a game-time decision. In his appearances, Willis has recorded 324 passing yards, completing 73.5% of his passes with two touchdowns and no interceptions. He has also demonstrated his mobility, rushing for 114 yards and one touchdown. The Packers shifted gears in their backfield, trading away 29-year-old Aaron Jones for young star Josh Jacobs. Jacobs has amassed 278 rushing yards this season, highlighted by a standout performance against the Colts, where he rushed for 151 yards, though he is still searching for his first touchdown.
Green Bay boasts a promising group of young receivers. Jayden Reed has been particularly impressive but is questionable for this matchup due to a calf injury. The Packers can still count on Romeo Doubs (8 catches, 130 yards) and Christian Watson (5 catches, 80 yards) to contribute on the outside.
The Packers’ defense has shown improvement, allowing 19.3 points per game but has tightened up in recent contests, not allowing more than 14 points in the last two games. Quay Walker leads the team with 22 tackles in his third year out of Georgia. Green Bay leads the NFL with seven interceptions, with safety Xavier McKinney accounting for three and corner Jaire Alexander contributing two. The defense has also tallied 11 sacks, led by 6’3″, 305-pound defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt. Alexander and Wyatt are both listed as questionable ahead of the game.
Injury Report:
Questionable: QB Jordan Love, WR Jayden Reed, TE Luke Musgrave, OT Jordan Morgan, DT Devonte Wyatt, DT Kenny Clark, CB Jaire Alexander
Best Bets for Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers
The Vikings are not likely to maintain their undefeated status or cover every game this season, but they could still be competitive in this matchup. The injury report plays a pivotal role in this game. While Malik Willis has stepped up, defensive coordinator Todd Bowles is eager to expose any weaknesses Willis may have. Although the Packers secured two wins with Willis, they came against teams with struggling defenses, and he has yet to prove himself against a stronger opponent like Minnesota. The Vikings’ defense, which limits opponents to just ten points per game, will be prepared to face the young quarterback.
Furthermore, key injuries for Green Bay include their top cornerback (Alexander), their leading sack artist (Wyatt), and their primary receiver (Reed). If any of these players are unable to play, it could significantly impact the Packers’ performance. Sam Darnold, who is finding his groove with Minnesota, has already connected for a 97-yard touchdown with Justin Jefferson and leads the league in touchdown passes. This matchup may evolve into a tightly contested, low-scoring divisional rivalry. Taking the points with the more robust roster could be a wise choice.
