New York Jets (+6)* at Minnesota Vikings
Minnesota has quietly made a name for itself as the team that is a slight cut above the other weaklings. The Vikings have been competitive in each of their last six games, losing to the Bills, Bears, and Packers by a combined 12 points while beating the Buccaneers, Redskins, and Panthers. In fact, all five of Minnesota’s wins have come against teams with losing records, and the Jets appear to be ripe for the picking.
But, how?
Indeed, New York has proven to be one of the worst teams in the league, playing inspired football in one game only to get lambasted in another. Sunday’s game in Minnesota has all the makings of a similar outcome, until considering the following: Minnesota, at 5-7, is also a bad team.
It has been largely documented that the Jets cannot stop anyone through the air — they have allowed the second-most passing touchdowns, yet recorded the second-fewest interceptions in the league — but the Vikings might be the one team incapable of capitalizing on this weakness. Minnesota — third-worst in passing yards and passing touchdowns — has broken 250 passing yards only twice since Teddy Bridgewater took over the reigns under center. In addition, Bridgewater has eight passing touchdowns on the year, with no more than two in any given game.
The Jets obviously have their struggles on offense — third-fewest points scored and fourth-fewest yards gained — but their defense is absolutely capable of holding down the Vikings’ offense. The one strength of the Jets is a rushing defense that has allowed the third-fewest yards in the league.
In what will otherwise be slap-fest that might actually result in nothing more than field goals for either team, the Jets win by three and beat the spread.
