Minnesota Vikings vs. Carolina Panthers Odds & Game Pick (2021)
As we approach the 1/3 mark of the season, the pretenders and contenders are beginning to get sorted out across the NFL. In the NFC, the verdict is still very much out on both the Vikings and Panthers, as both have seen mixed results to this point in the season.
Let’s take a closer look at where the value lies as kickoff approaches.
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Details
- Opening Line: Panthers -1.5, O/U 47.5
- Current Line: Panthers +1, O/U 46
- Last meeting: November 29, 2020 – Panthers 27, Vikings 28
Overview
After starting the season 3-0, covering all three, the Panthers were being talked about in some circles as real contenders in the NFC. With two of those wins coming against the Jets and Texans, the NFC East has quickly brought them back to earth as the Cowboys and Eagles have knocked them off in back-to-back games, covering both.
The problems on offense start with QB Sam Darnold and his one, as the QB has thrown five ints in addition to being sacked eight times in their last two games. He’s had to manage without All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey who has missed the last two games with a hamstring injury.
For the Vikings, an 0-2 start was followed up by two wins in their last three, most recently a last-second win at home vs. the Lions as 10-point favorites.
While the offense has struggled, the defense has been strong as they’ve given up just one touchdown through the air over their last three games and the unit comes into this game allowing just 21.8 points per game on the season.
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Trends
- Vikings are 1-7 ATS in their L8 October games
- Under on a 4-0 run in Panthers L4 games at home
- Under on a 5-1 run in Panthers L6 vs. NFC foes
Bottom Line
The favorite has flipped in this one and while I understand why, I’m not buying it. Not only do I think the Panthers get a significant boost from the return of McCaffrey, but the pass-heavy Vikings will be going up against the #1 pass defense in the league who are allowing just 161.6 yards per game.
Pick: Panthers +1
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