Two of the NFC North’s top teams meet as the Green Bay Packers visit the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday in a pivotal matchup with playoff implications. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Over 49 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Packers vs. Vikings
Sunday, December 29, 2024 – 04:25 PM ET at U.S. Bank Stadium
Green Bay Crushed New Orleans
The Packers enter this matchup on a high note after a dominant 34-0 win over the New Orleans Saints on Monday, clinching their fifth playoff berth in six years.
Josh Jacobs continued his stellar season, amassing 107 scrimmage yards and scoring a touchdown for the sixth consecutive game, leaving him just one game shy of tying Paul Hornung’s franchise record of seven straight games with a rushing touchdown. Jacobs carried the ball 13 times for 69 yards and a one-yard score, while also catching four passes for 38 yards.
Jordan Love managed the offense efficiently, completing 16 of 28 passes for 182 yards, including a two-yard touchdown to Dontayvion Wicks. Green Bay’s rushing attack was bolstered by one-yard touchdowns from Chris Brooks and Emanuel Wilson, and kicker Brandon McManus added long-range field goals from 55 and 46 yards, highlighting the team’s well-rounded offensive effort.
Minnesota Prevailed in Seattle
The Minnesota Vikings extended their winning streak to eight games with a thrilling 27-24 victory over the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.
Sam Darnold delivered in crunch time, orchestrating a late drive that featured a deep pass to Justin Jefferson, setting up his third touchdown pass of the game. Darnold finished with 246 yards on 22 of 35 passing, marking his 11th game with multiple touchdown passes this season.
Jefferson, the centerpiece of Minnesota’s offense, was unstoppable with 10 catches for 148 yards and two touchdowns. His big-play ability remains crucial as the Vikings aim to lock down the NFC’s top seed with wins over Green Bay and Detroit in their final two games.
Minnesota has excelled in close games, improving to 8-1 in one-score contests under head coach Kevin O’Connell, who became the first Vikings coach to achieve multiple 13-win seasons.
Keys to the Game
Jacobs has been a workhorse for Green Bay, with his ability to dominate on the ground and contribute as a receiver. If the Packers can establish him early, they’ll control the pace and open up the play-action game. Minnesota’s defense, however, thrives in high-pressure situations and will look to force Green Bay into long-yardage scenarios by containing Jacobs.
Jefferson’s knack for explosive plays and clutch moments makes him a matchup nightmare. The Packers must prioritize slowing him down with double coverage or risk allowing him to take over the game. Forcing Darnold to rely on secondary options will be key to Green Bay’s defensive success.
Love has been steady but unspectacular, and this game will test his ability to handle Minnesota’s aggressive defense. A clean pocket will be crucial for Love to find open receivers and maintain drives, as turnovers or sacks could swing the game in Minnesota’s favor.
McManus’ accuracy and range give Green Bay an edge in close games. Field position battles and converting opportunities into points could tip the scales, especially if the game stays tight.
NFL Pick
This contest will likely come down to execution in critical moments. The Packers’ reliance on Jacobs to control the clock and the Vikings’ ability to produce explosive plays through Jefferson set the stage for an intense divisional battle. Green Bay’s steady ground game and defensive discipline will be tested by Minnesota’s big-play capability and late-game composure in what could be a high-scoring affair.
NFL Pick: Over 49 (-110) at Bet365
*21+ Seek help with a gambling addiction at 1-800-Gambler
*The line and/or odds referenced in this article might have changed since the content was published. For the latest information on line movements, visit OddsTrader’s free betting odds tool.
