Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 12/16/2024 8:00 PM EST
We have your Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Chicago Bears hit the road to face the Minnesota Vikings.
Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings Odds Info
Best Moneyline Odds: Chicago Bears +255 (BetRivers) / Minnesota Vikings -300 (FanDuel)
Best Spread Odds: -7.0 - Chicago Bears -117 (BetRivers) / Minnesota Vikings +100 (Caesars)
Best Total Odds: 44.5 - Under -112 (FanDuel) / 43.5 - Over -110 (bet365)
Game Info
Date: 12/16/2024
Time: 8:00 PM EST
Location: U.S. Bank Stadium (Minneapolis, MN)
TV: ABC
Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis
Over the past two seasons, the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings have faced each other three times, with the Vikings winning two of those matchups and the Bears securing one victory. Notably, all three games were won by the visiting team, indicating a trend where home-field advantage has not played a significant role in these encounters. In terms of betting outcomes, the Bears have covered the spread once, while the Vikings have also covered once, with one game resulting in a push. The games have generally leaned towards lower scoring, with the under hitting twice and the over hitting once. Across these matchups, the Bears have struggled offensively, averaging 17.3 points per game, while the Vikings have averaged 19.7 points per game.
The most recent game between these two teams took place on November 24, 2024, where the Minnesota Vikings emerged victorious with a 30-27 win over the Chicago Bears. The game was closely contested, with the Vikings taking a narrow lead into halftime and eventually securing the win with a late field goal. The Vikings' offense was led by Sam Darnold, who threw for two touchdowns, while Aaron Jones contributed with a rushing touchdown. The Bears, led by Caleb Williams, mounted a strong comeback in the fourth quarter, scoring 17 points, but ultimately fell short. Both teams recorded one turnover each, and the Vikings had a slight edge in total yardage, amassing 452 yards compared to the Bears' 398 yards. The game went over the closing over-under line of 39.5, with a total score of 57 points.
In the previous two matchups during the 2023 season, the Bears and Vikings each secured a win. On November 27, 2023, the Bears defeated the Vikings 12-10 in a low-scoring affair, with the Bears covering the spread as underdogs. Earlier that season, on October 15, 2023, the Vikings won 19-13, covering the spread as favorites. Both games were characterized by strong defensive performances, with neither team scoring more than 19 points. The Bears' offense struggled in these games, averaging just 12.5 points, while the Vikings averaged 14.5 points. The under hit in both matchups, reflecting the defensive nature of these contests.
Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings Preview
The Minnesota Vikings are set to host the Chicago Bears in a highly anticipated Monday Night Football clash at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings, riding a six-game winning streak, have established themselves as formidable contenders in the NFC, boasting an impressive 11-2 record. Their recent 42-21 victory over the Atlanta Falcons showcased their offensive prowess, with quarterback Sam Darnold delivering a stellar performance, throwing for 347 yards and five touchdowns. The Vikings' offense, ranked 8th in points scored and 10th in total yards, has been a key factor in their success this season.
On the other hand, the Chicago Bears are struggling to find their footing, having lost seven consecutive games. The Bears' recent 38-13 defeat to the San Francisco 49ers highlighted their ongoing challenges, particularly on the offensive side. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams has shown flashes of potential, but the Bears' offense has been inconsistent, ranking 23rd in points scored and last in total yards. The departure of head coach Matt Eberflus has added to the team's instability, with interim head coach Thomas Brown facing a daunting task in turning the season around.
As the Bears prepare to face the Vikings, they will need to overcome significant odds. The Vikings are heavy favorites, with a 7-point spread in their favor, reflecting their superior form and home advantage. The Bears' road record has been dismal, with an 0-6 mark away from home, further complicating their chances of an upset. Despite these challenges, the Bears will look to capitalize on any opportunities presented by the Vikings' aggressive defense, which has been known to apply relentless pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
This matchup also marks the debut of the Vikings' new "Winter Warrior" uniforms, adding an extra layer of excitement to the game. The Vikings will aim to maintain their momentum and solidify their position as NFC North leaders, while the Bears will be eager to end their losing streak and salvage some pride in a challenging season. With both teams having a history of closely contested games, fans can expect an intense battle under the bright lights of Monday Night Football.
Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings Pick: Minnesota Vikings Moneyline
The Minnesota Vikings are poised to continue their impressive run as they face the Chicago Bears in a Monday Night Football showdown. With an 11-2 record and a six-game winning streak, the Vikings have established themselves as one of the NFC's top contenders. Their recent 42-21 victory over the Atlanta Falcons highlighted their offensive capabilities, with quarterback Sam Darnold delivering a standout performance, throwing for 347 yards and five touchdowns. This offensive prowess is further underscored by their ranking of 8th in points scored and 10th in total yards this season.
In contrast, the Chicago Bears are in the midst of a challenging season, having lost seven consecutive games. Their recent 38-13 defeat to the San Francisco 49ers exposed ongoing struggles, particularly on offense, where they rank 23rd in points scored and last in total yards. The Bears' instability is compounded by the recent departure of head coach Matt Eberflus, leaving interim head coach Thomas Brown with the daunting task of turning the season around.
The Vikings' home advantage at U.S. Bank Stadium, where they boast a 6-1 record, further strengthens their position as favorites. The Bears, on the other hand, have struggled on the road, with an 0-6 record away from home. This disparity is reflected in the betting odds, with the Vikings being heavy favorites with a 7-point spread. Additionally, the Vikings' aggressive defense is expected to apply relentless pressure on Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, potentially leading to turnovers that could swing the game in Minnesota's favor.
Adding to the excitement, the Vikings will debut their new "Winter Warrior" uniforms, which could provide an extra boost of morale and energy. With their current form, home advantage, and the Bears' ongoing struggles, the Vikings are well-positioned to secure another victory and solidify their standing as NFC North leaders. Therefore, the pick for this matchup is the Minnesota Vikings Moneyline.
Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings Top Player Prop Picks
Sam Darnold Over 249.5 Passing Yards -110 (bet365)
Sam Darnold has been a revelation for the Minnesota Vikings this season, stepping up as a key offensive leader. In their recent 42-21 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, Darnold threw for an impressive 347 yards and five touchdowns, showcasing his ability to exploit defenses with precision and poise. The Vikings' offense ranks 8th in points scored and 10th in total yards, indicating a well-rounded and potent attack. Against a Chicago Bears defense that has struggled, particularly after the departure of head coach Matt Eberflus, Darnold is poised to continue his aerial assault. The Bears' defense has been vulnerable, as evidenced by their recent 38-13 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, where they allowed significant yardage through the air. With Darnold's current form and the Vikings' offensive momentum, taking the over on 249.5 passing yards seems a strong play.
Justin Jefferson Over 81.5 Receiving Yards -110 (bet365)
Justin Jefferson remains one of the most dynamic receivers in the NFL, and his role in the Vikings' high-powered offense cannot be overstated. In the Vikings' recent win over the Falcons, Jefferson was a key target, contributing significantly to the team's offensive success. With Sam Darnold's impressive passing performance, Jefferson is likely to see plenty of opportunities to rack up receiving yards against a Bears defense that has shown vulnerabilities. The Bears' secondary has struggled to contain explosive plays, and Jefferson's ability to stretch the field makes him a prime candidate to exceed the 81.5 receiving yards line. Given the Vikings' offensive ranking and Jefferson's proven track record, the over on this prop is a compelling choice.
Caleb Williams Under 207.5 Passing Yards -110 (bet365)
Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams faces a daunting task as he leads the Chicago Bears against a formidable Minnesota Vikings defense. The Bears' offense has been inconsistent, ranking last in total yards and 23rd in points scored. Williams, while showing flashes of potential, has struggled to find rhythm, particularly in the face of aggressive defenses. The Vikings are known for their relentless pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which could lead to a challenging outing for Williams. In their recent game against the 49ers, the Bears managed only 134 passing yards, highlighting their offensive struggles. With the Vikings' defense likely to apply similar pressure, the under on 207.5 passing yards for Williams appears to be a prudent pick.