UPDATE Christian McCaffery is out for Carolina
Last year it was a 1 point win for Minnesota, this year that is the spread as they meet in Charlotte. The total at 46.5, -140(MIN), +120(CAR). The Vikings come in off a win that ended up being by only two after having a late 10 point lead, while the Panthers have lost two in row. Carolina should have Christian McCaffery back he is now questionable, however did miss Thursdays practice. Both teams have the same 23.5 team total. The Panthers have been controlling the clock under Matt Rhule, 1st in time of possession. I don’t think their game plan changes even if CMC sits.
The Cleveland game might be the way this one looks if Carolina is able to impose their will. However in that game there were so many goal line stops and then a questionable holding call in the end zone in the first half that allowed the Browns to score when they would’ve been stopped otherwise. Kirk Cousins is putting up great numbers this year, 279.2 per game, 10 TD, 2 INT. That coupled with Mattison leading the rushing stats now as both him and Cook have been good. The Vikings do have some players banged up as well. A few receivers missing practice this week.
22 per game for the Vikings, 23 per game for the Panthers so there is no advantage to be had with the totals, this is one that could go either way. My prediction 23-20 Vikings.