49ers at Vikings Game Preview and Free Pick

The San Francisco 49ers, boasting a record of 5-1, are determined to bounce back after their first loss of the season. In their recent matchup against the Cleveland Browns, they were defeated 19-17, marking the first regular-season loss in Brock Purdy’s career. This loss ended their impressive 15-game winning streak, dating back to the previous October. Purdy struggled, amassing only 125 passing yards and throwing his first interception of the season. The Browns’ defense proved to be a formidable opponent for the 49ers.

In contrast, the Minnesota Vikings, holding a 2-4 record, will confront the 49ers without their star athlete, Justin Jefferson, who has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury. This unfortunate setback has necessitated Jefferson’s placement on the injured reserve list. Conversely, the 49ers may also find themselves without some of their primary offensive assets, such as Christian McCaffrey (oblique), Deebo Samuel (shoulder), and Trent Williams (ankle), all of whom are widely regarded as among the top players in their respective positions across the league.

The last time the 49ers experienced back-to-back losses was the last time they lost a regular-season game before their defeat by the Browns. That loss to Cleveland was by a score of 20-13 and marked the end of a 15-game winning streak. Purdy’s performance was lackluster, with just 125 passing yards and his first interception of the season. The Browns’ defense posed a significant challenge for the 49ers.

Vikings’ Defensive Struggle and Offensive Challenge Against Resilient 49ers

The Vikings are not on the same defensive level as the Browns, and their offense is notably weaker without Justin Jefferson. Last week, the Vikings secured a 19-13 victory over the Chicago Bears on the road, with Justin Fields leaving the game early. Kirk Cousins managed only 181 passing yards in this less-than-inspiring win, but the Vikings’ defense shone by forcing three turnovers and recording five sacks.

Despite their loss last week, the 49ers still possess one of the NFL’s best defenses, allowing the fewest points per game in the league at 14.5. Their defense ranks in the top 10 against the pass and is even more formidable against the run. While Cousins may have the ability to pass to his weapons, such as Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson, Alexander Mattison will likely struggle to find running room against the formidable 49ers front.

Vikings’ Shift from High-Scoring to Under Games: Challenges and Opportunities

A lot has changed since the previous season when the Vikings were known for excelling in one-score games. They had one of the highest-scoring offenses in the NFL but also one of the worst defenses, resulting in games with high-scoring outcomes. However, this season has seen the Vikings’ offense and defense move toward the middle of the pack, leading to a higher number of games with scores below the expected totals (under). This trend is further emphasized by Kirk Cousins’s well-documented difficulties in prime-time games, the challenging matchup against the 49ers, and the presence of several star players on the 49ers’ injury report. Consequently, betting the under is considered the favorable option for this matchup.

The San Francisco 49ers are aiming to rebound after their first loss of the season against the Cleveland Browns. They face the Minnesota Vikings, who will be without star receiver Justin Jefferson due to injury. The Vikings’ offense has performed less impressively this season, and their defense is not as formidable as that of the 49ers. San Francisco boasts a top-tier defense, while Minnesota’s offense and defense have both moved toward the middle of the pack this season. Considering Kirk Cousins’s prime-time struggles, the challenging matchup, and the injuries on the 49ers’ side, betting the under is suggested for this game. 

Odds at BetAnySports.eu 

Spread: 49ers -7 (105) – Vikings +7 (-115)

Money Line: 49ers -305 – Vikings +255

Trends and Picks

A full 80% of the action that has been wagered on this game has been on the 49ers.

Minnesota is 9-1 ATS in its last 10 games when playing at home against San Francisco.

As much as we think SF is the better team and should easily win this game, we are going to have to go with the Vikes here. The super lopsided public action and historic trends point toward the Vikes in this game. Maybe buy the half and make Minnesota +7.5 at home. Make sure to visit https://aff.betanysports.eu/sba/ and lock in an extra 30% cash or 135% Free Play or take advantage of a generous 135% Free Play bonus when you deposit funds.