Monday Night Football Prediction: Vikings vs. Bears

Key Stats and Insights

Week 1 features an important NFC North clash as the Minnesota Vikings face off against the Chicago Bears. Last season, Chicago finished with a 4-5 home record, while Minnesota boasted a strong 6-2 record on the road. The Vikings finished last year at 14-3, making them second in the division, whereas the Bears ended with a 5-12 record, ranking fourth in their conference.

Vikings safety Harrison Smith (illness) will not play, but star receiver Justin Jefferson is confirmed to be fit despite prior hamstring concerns during the preseason. The Bears are also missing key players like linebacker T.J. Edwards and corners Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon.

Kickoff at Soldier Field is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET. Historically, the Vikings lead the series 68-52-2, and they come in as 2.5-point favorites, while the over/under is set at 43.5 points.

Reasons the Vikings May Triumph

Starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy, returning from a knee injury that sidetracked his last season, is ready for action. In his collegiate career, he achieved a 67.6% completion rate over three seasons and is coming off a national championship win.

Justin Jefferson, the star wide receiver, is coming off a 1,533 receiving yard season and remains a significant threat with playmaking ability.

Factors Favoring the Bears

Second-year quarterback Caleb Williams, under the guidance of first-year head coach Ben Johnson, aims to elevate last season’s statistics. Williams threw for 3,552 yards and 20 touchdowns last year while also posing a dual threat with his rushing capabilities.

The Bears’ running back D’Andre Swift is another pivotal player, bringing experience and skill to the backfield.

Making Your Picks

R.J. White has scrutinized the matchup and favors betting on the point total going under. For complete insights and expert picks for the Vikings vs. Bears game, click here.