One game that offers some solid betting value in my eyes is the Minnesota Vikings vs Cincinnati Bengals game.
You may gloss over this intra-conference battle between two non-playoff teams from last season when placing your bets, but don’t – there’s a lot to like!
There are props worth targeting and a total, based on Props.com trends page powered by BetPrep.
My favorite bets:
- Over 47.5 points
- Dalvin Cook over 97.5 rushing yards
Let’s take a closer look at these.
Two Poor Defenses Last Season
When I’m considering an over, I tend to start with the quality of defenses on the field. A bad defense can make a bad offense look good, and in this game, we have two poor defenses from 2020 to start the year.
The Bengals in particular had an abysmal defense last season, and I’m not seeing enough moves made that suggest we’re about to see a better unit in 2021.
Cincinnati was generous to strong performances through the air and on the ground, and the Minnesota offense is well-equipped to take advantage.
Dalvin Cook, Adam Thielen, and Justin Jefferson are going to have monster games against this Bengals defense, aiding our pick: bet the over.
The over is 8-2-1 in Vikings games in their last 11 games, and at just 47.5 points, it’s extremely reasonable.
Minnesota’s defense is non-threatening as well, though they at least made better efforts to strengthen the unit.
Still, the Bengals have a loaded receiving group who should be able to get open against this questionable Vikings secondary.
I expect points from both sides, with the Vikings ultimately winning.
Take Dalvin Cook’s Over
Dalvin Cook is one of the NFL’s best running backs, averaging over 111 yards per game last season.
His over is high on Sunday, around 97.5 yards, but don’t be scared off, bet Cook to hit this mark.
As mentioned, the Bengals’ defense is a weakness that can be exploited. According to BetPrep, Cook has rushed for 98+ yards in 4 of his last 5 games against bottom-ten defenses, good for an 80% coverage rate at these odds.
This offense goes as Cook does, and of pure volume, he’s a solid pick every week.
I expect a strong opening contest for the star running back, and am betting him to confidently hit this mark.
For more NFL picks and props, be sure to follow me on Twitter, @griffybets.
