Free Pick: Los Angeles Rams 10-4 at Minnesota 7-7 12/26/21

In the last two weeks, the Rams have moved into a tie for the NFC West division. They need to win this game to keep the pressure on the Arizona Cardinals. Meanwhile, the Vikings are currently in the playoffs if the season ended today. So, this would be a huge boost to their chances if they could upset the Rams. Let’s look at the betting angles.

TOTAL TEAM POINTS:

Minnesota 23.5 Total Team Points: The Vikings are scoring 26 points per game. They have scored 24 or more points in 10 of their 14 games this season. They will probably need to score at least that to win this game. They have scored points on teams such as Green Bay (34), Pittsburgh (36), and Arizona (33). The Rams’ defense has been tough to run on and they seem to be playing well going into this game. They played on Tuesday and will have a short week of preparation for Minnesota. I’m taking Minnesota OVER 23.5 Total Team Points

Los Angeles 26.5 Total Team Points: The Rams’ offense is scoring 28 points per game and Matthew Stafford has thrown for 4,142 yards and 35 touchdowns. Wideout, Cooper Kupp, is having one of the best seasons ever with 122 catches for 1,625 yards and 14 touchdowns. The Vikings defense has been their problem and they are going to have to turn in their performance of the season to get a victory in this one. I like Los Angeles UNDER 26.5 points.

OVER/UNDER 49.5 Total Combined Team Points I’m thinking 27-24, 28-21, 31-24, something in that neighborhood. I’ll take the OVER 49.5 points.

POINT SPREAD: Los Angeles is a 3-point favorite The Rams are favored and rightfully so. They have won two in a row and are taking dead aim at the NFC West division. But, there is a chance they might have a letdown after two hard fought wins over division rivals, Arizona and Seattle. Meanwhile, Minnesota is in a must-win situation in their quest to claim a wildcard spot. If they can beat the Rams, that will give them a huge boost. Once again, the Dudes are split on this one.

PAPA DUDES PICK: Minnesota +3

AARON’S PICK: Los Angeles -3