Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers: Spread Analysis and Pick Prediction

The Minnesota Vikings roll into this clash mired in losing streaks of 1-7 straight and 2-6 against the spread in this series, while the Green Bay Packers are in on ATS win streaks of 6-1 when hosting Minnesota and 12-2 against NFC North teams.

But a word to the wise—most of those positive Packer angles were created with Aaron Rodgers under center.

Point Spread: Packers opened as three-point favorites and the number had grown to 4.5 by Wednesday; the total was 44 mid-week. (Line updates and matchup report)

Odds Shark Computer Prediction: 26.2-17.0 Packers

Why the Vikings Can Cover the Spread

Christian Ponder was under extreme pressure last week in Seattle, and he still produced a decent first half against the defensively sound Seahawks, completing nine of 13 pass attempts for 114 yards and a 38-yard touchdown in the first two quarters. And, for what it's worth, the Packers aren't Seattle.

Why the Packers Can Cover the Spread

There is no word out of Green Bay whether or not Aaron Rodgers will be able to go, but if the Packers do have to use Scott Tolzien, the benefit is he has a game under his belt. Now he would be starting at home, and based on his 24-for-34, 339-yard performance last week, there's some hope.

They have dominated the Vikings at home (6-1 ATS) and own a profitable 12-2 ATS streak in divisional games.

Smart Pick

Green Bay has to rebound at some point and this is a good spot, as the Vikings are back on the road for a second straight week. After getting beat down in Seattle last Sunday, to have to go to Lambeau isn't exactly the best reward. The value in the line is low because of Rodgers' absence.

Trends

• Vikings are 1-7 SU, 2-6 ATS past eight games vs Packers   
• Packers are 6-1 ATS past seven at home to Vikings
• Packers are 12-2 ATS past 14 divisional games        

Note: All spread and odds data powered by Odds Shark—follow them on Twitter for injury updates and line move updates.