The Minnesota Vikings will be forced to start backup quarterback Nick Mullens this week, which usually means fewer pass attempts and more rushing.
This week’s line indicates a throwing game script for the Vikings, who are -3.5-point underdogs.
Our trusted projections expect the Vikings to be the 3rd-most pass-heavy team among all teams this week with a 65.0% pass rate, based on their underlying strategic approach and matchup dynamics.
At the moment, the 9th-quickest paced offense in the league (context-neutralized) according to the predictive model is the Vikings.
This year, the weak Detroit Lions defense has conceded a colossal 177.0 adjusted receiving yards per game to opposing WRs: the 5th-worst in football.
Cons
Justin Jefferson’s ball-catching skills have diminished this season, with his Adjusted Completion Rate falling off from 72.0% to 65.0%.
This year, the formidable Lions pass defense has surrendered the 4th-least yards-after-the-catch in the NFL to opposing WRs: a feeble 3.4 YAC.