Free Pick: Pittsburgh 6-5-1 at Minnesota 5-7 12/9/21

This is a must win for the Steelers. They still have a shot at the AFC North division, as well as a possible, wild card berth. But, they have to win games like this, against a capable, but flawed, Minnesota team. Pittsburgh is a proud team and they can’t be counted out until they are mathematically eliminated. The Vikings have a slim hope at a wild card spot in the NFC, but after the loss last week against Detroit, most people have written them off. This is a “pride” game for them. Let’s look at the betting angles.

TOTAL TEAM POINTS:

Pittsburgh 20 Total Team Points: The Steelers are scoring 20 points per game and one would think they would have to score at least that many points to win. They are going up against a Viking defense that is giving up 25 points and 382 total yards per game. This is probably Ben Roethlisberger’s last stand and he won’t go down quietly. I’m taking Pittsburgh OVER 20 Total Team Points

Minnesota 23.5 Total Team Points The Minnesota offense has not been the problem for the Vikings. They are averaging 395 total yards and 26 points per game which is good enough to win. Their defense has been the problem for the lack of success the Vikings have had this season. The Pittsburgh defense has suffered through a lot of injuries, but they can play well at times. I like Minnesota UNDER 23.5 points.

OVER/UNDER 43.5 Total Combined Team Points This line is too risky for me. I see the score being something in the 23-20 range. If I was betting, I would take the UNDER.

POINT SPREAD: Minnesota is a 3-point favorite We see this game going either way. However, it means a lot more to the Steelers than it does the Vikings. Minnesota’s loss at Detroit can go one of two ways. They can be totally embarrassed, and come out ready to prove they aren’t that bad, or they can call it a year.

DUDES WHO BET SPORTS PICK: Pittsburgh +3