Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears - Week 15

Minnesota Vikings (6-7) at Chicago Bears (4-9)

Chicago's primary disadvantage this season has been their offense, which has ranked #30 in football with a low 316 yards per game. They've been so ineffective on offense in large part because of their aerial attack, clocking in at #32 in the league with just 194 yards per game. Partially to blame is Chicago's offensive line, which has given the quarterback very little protection, ranking just #24 in the NFL. Wide receiver has been a particular weakness for the Bears; as a group they've caught just 57.1% of the balls thrown in their direction (#1-worst in the league).

When it comes to their defense, the Bears check in at #17 in football when it comes to total yards allowed per game. Opposing air attacks have notched 237 yards per game against Chicago this year (#10 in football). Opposing ball-carriers have ranked #28 against them with 4.78 yards per ground attempt. This Bears defense hits their peak effectiveness when it comes to defending opposing tight ends, keeping them in check at just 38 yards per game (#2-best in the league). Chicago's defensive effectiveness bottoms out when it comes to defending opposing wide receivers, who have scorched them for 9.21 yards per target (#5-worst in the league).

Minnesota's biggest weakness has been their defense, ranking #29 in the league while allowing 398 yards per game. Much of their struggle has come in trying to lock down the pass game, as they've allowed opposing QBs pass for the #6-most yards per game: 271. That's not to give any unnecessary credit to their run defense, though, which checks in at #7-worst in yards per carry (4.68). The Vikings have been at their worst when it comes to shutting down opposing wide receivers, allowing them to rack up 197 yards per game (#1-worst). Minnesota's worst position group in coverage has been their cornerbacks, which rank just #32 in the league in locking down route-runners.

In terms of their offense, the Vikings have ranked #6 in the league in total yards per game. They've passed for 262 yards per game (#9 in football). On the ground they've ranked #7 with 4.83 yards per carry. They've been most effective throwing to wide receivers, who have hauled in 70.6% of the balls thrown their way this year (ranking #5).

Both teams will be aided by additional days rest compared to a typical week. Every extra day helps, and both teams are likely to be healthier and more prepared for the game. This could lead to more efficient play on both sides of the ball. These two teams are divisional opponents. This rivalry should add extra significance to the game, and both teams are likely to be ultra motivated. The last time these two teams played each other was Week 15 in 2020. That game resulted in a road win for the Vikings with a final score of 19-13.

Significant line movement toward the Over has shifted the Game Total. It opened 43.5 before it was bet up to 47.5. The majority of the bets are on the Over with 59% of the bets and 63% of the cash.

PROJECTION:
Minnesota Vikings - 25.46
Chicago Bears - 18.21

Win Probability:
MIN 74% / CHI 26%

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