Arizona Cardinals at Minnesota Vikings Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 12/1/2024 1:00 PM EST
We have your Arizona Cardinals at Minnesota Vikings prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Arizona Cardinals hit the road to face the Minnesota Vikings.
Arizona Cardinals at Minnesota Vikings Odds Info
Best Moneyline Odds: Arizona Cardinals +150 (Caesars) / Minnesota Vikings -178 (Caesars)
Best Spread Odds: -3.5 - Arizona Cardinals -113 (BetRivers) / -3.0 - Minnesota Vikings -115 (DraftKings)
Best Total Odds: 45.0 - Under -113 (BetRivers) / Over -108 (BetRivers)
Game Info
Date: 12/1/2024
Time: 1:00 PM EST
Location: U.S. Bank Stadium (Minneapolis, MN)
TV: FOX
Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis
In the past three seasons, the Arizona Cardinals and the Minnesota Vikings have faced each other once, with the game taking place on October 30, 2022. In this matchup, the Minnesota Vikings emerged victorious, defeating the Arizona Cardinals with a score of 34-26. The home team, Minnesota, was favored to win, and they successfully covered the spread. The game also went over the projected total score, marking the only instance in this period where the over hit. The Cardinals, as the visiting team, did not manage to secure a win or cover the spread in this encounter.
The most recent game between these two teams was characterized by a strong offensive performance from both sides. The Vikings accumulated a total of 381 yards, with 208 passing yards and 173 rushing yards. They scored five touchdowns, including three rushing touchdowns and two passing touchdowns. Kirk Cousins played a pivotal role, contributing with a rushing touchdown and two passing touchdowns. The Cardinals, on the other hand, recorded 375 total yards, with 297 passing yards and 78 rushing yards. Kyler Murray threw for three touchdowns but also had two interceptions. The Cardinals struggled with turnovers, committing three compared to the Vikings' one.
Both teams demonstrated similar efficiency in securing first downs, with each team achieving 25. However, the Cardinals' inability to convert on crucial plays, such as third and fourth downs, and their turnovers were significant factors in their defeat. The Vikings' defense capitalized on these mistakes, recording two interceptions and maintaining pressure with four sacks. Penalties were also a factor, with both teams committing ten penalties each, but the Vikings managed to maintain their composure and secure the win. This game highlighted the Vikings' ability to execute their game plan effectively, both offensively and defensively, against the Cardinals.
Arizona Cardinals at Minnesota Vikings Preview
The Arizona Cardinals are set to face the Minnesota Vikings in a crucial Week 13 matchup at U.S. Bank Stadium. Both teams have defied preseason expectations, emerging as contenders in their respective divisions. The Cardinals, currently sitting at 6-5, are in a tightly contested NFC West, where every game could dramatically alter their standing. Meanwhile, the Vikings, boasting a 9-2 record, are hot on the heels of the Detroit Lions in the NFC North, making this game pivotal for their division title aspirations.
Arizona enters this game after a disappointing 16-6 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, a game where their offense struggled to find the end zone. Kyler Murray, despite throwing for 285 yards, was unable to lead his team to a touchdown, and the Cardinals' offensive line woes were evident as they allowed five sacks. However, the Cardinals have shown resilience this season, previously stringing together a four-game winning streak, and they will need to tap into that form to challenge the Vikings.
The Vikings, on the other hand, are riding a four-game winning streak, with their latest victory being a thrilling 30-27 overtime win against the Chicago Bears. Sam Darnold has stepped up as the starting quarterback, throwing for 330 yards and two touchdowns in their last outing. Minnesota's offense, featuring playmakers like Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson, has been formidable, and their defense, orchestrated by Brian Flores, ranks among the top in the league, particularly in forcing turnovers.
Injury reports for both teams show some concerns, but the Cardinals have a relatively light list, with key players like Jalen Thompson and Darius Robinson practicing in a limited capacity. The Vikings, while having more players listed, have managed to maintain their performance levels despite these challenges. The game promises to be a test of Arizona's ability to contain Minnesota's diverse offensive threats and for the Vikings to continue their defensive dominance.
With both teams having much at stake, this matchup is set to be a high-stakes encounter, potentially featuring explosive plays and strategic battles on both sides of the ball. The Cardinals will need to overcome their historical struggles against the Vikings on the road, having lost 11 straight in Minnesota, while the Vikings will aim to capitalize on their home-field advantage and maintain their pursuit of the division crown.
Arizona Cardinals at Minnesota Vikings Pick: Total Points Over
As the Arizona Cardinals prepare to face the Minnesota Vikings, the potential for a high-scoring affair is evident, making the over on the total points an enticing pick. Both teams have demonstrated offensive capabilities that suggest a shootout could be on the horizon. The Vikings, led by Sam Darnold, have been particularly effective in recent weeks, scoring 30 points in their overtime victory against the Chicago Bears. Darnold's ability to connect with key targets like Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson has been instrumental in their offensive success, and with Justin Jefferson also in the mix, the Vikings possess a formidable aerial attack.
On the other side, the Cardinals, despite their recent struggles against the Seahawks, have shown they can move the ball effectively. Kyler Murray's 285 passing yards in their last outing highlight his potential to exploit defenses, and with the Vikings' defense focusing on containing him, opportunities for big plays could arise. The Cardinals' offensive line will need to improve to give Murray the time he needs, but if they can protect him, the Cardinals have the weapons to keep pace with Minnesota.
Historically, when these two teams met in 2022, the game resulted in a combined score of 60 points, well over the projected total. Both teams have shown tendencies to engage in high-scoring games, with the Vikings' last five matchups against NFC teams hitting the over in four instances. Additionally, the Vikings' defense, while strong, has allowed points in bunches, as seen in their recent games, which could play into the Cardinals' hands if they can capitalize on their scoring opportunities.
Given the offensive firepower on both sides and the stakes involved in this matchup, the conditions are ripe for a game that exceeds the total points line. With both teams vying for crucial wins in their respective divisions, expect an aggressive approach that could lead to a high-scoring contest, making the over a compelling choice for this Week 13 clash.
Arizona Cardinals at Minnesota Vikings Top Player Prop Picks
Kyler Murray Over 22.5 Rushing Yards -110 (bet365)
Kyler Murray's mobility is a critical asset for the Arizona Cardinals, especially against a formidable Minnesota Vikings defense. Despite the Cardinals' offensive struggles in their recent loss to the Seattle Seahawks, where Murray was sacked five times, his ability to escape the pocket and gain yards on the ground remains a key component of Arizona's offensive strategy. The Vikings' defense, while strong, has shown vulnerabilities in containing mobile quarterbacks, and Murray's rushing ability could be pivotal in keeping the Cardinals competitive. With the Cardinals needing to exploit every offensive opportunity to challenge the Vikings, expect Murray to surpass the 22.5 rushing yards line as he looks to make plays with his legs.
Sam Darnold Over 1.5 Passing Touchdowns -125 (bet365)
Sam Darnold has been a revelation for the Minnesota Vikings, stepping up as the starting quarterback and delivering impressive performances. In their recent overtime victory against the Chicago Bears, Darnold threw for 330 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to lead the Vikings' potent offense. With playmakers like Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson at his disposal, Darnold is well-positioned to continue his touchdown streak against a Cardinals defense that has struggled to contain dynamic passing attacks. Given the Vikings' offensive momentum and Darnold's recent form, betting on him to throw over 1.5 touchdowns appears to be a solid choice.
Justin Jefferson Over 5.5 Receptions -140 (bet365)
Justin Jefferson remains a focal point of the Vikings' passing game, and despite not finding the end zone in recent weeks, his role as a primary target for Sam Darnold is unquestionable. Jefferson's ability to create separation and make contested catches makes him a reliable option in the Vikings' aerial attack. With the Cardinals' defense likely to focus on containing the Vikings' multiple offensive threats, Jefferson should see ample targets, especially in crucial situations. His knack for making big plays and the Vikings' need to maintain offensive pressure suggest that Jefferson will exceed the 5.5 receptions line, making this prop a compelling pick.