Oakland has been an online betting player’s dream away from home in 2011, and they’ll get another chance to prove on Sunday as they head to Minnesota to take on a Vikings team that is coming off a a short week, while the Raiders actually received more rest than usual.
What: NFL Betting
When: Sunday, November 20th, 1:00 PM ET
Where: Mall of America Field at the Metrodome, Minneapolis, MN
Pick: Oakland Raiders -1
Why Bet On Oakland Raiders (5-4 SU, 5-3-1 ATS)
The Raiders got Week 10 started with a bang by upsetting San Diego 24-17 on the road to snap a two-game skid, and even though everyone was talking about Carson Palmer’s solid outing (14-of-20, 299 yards, two touchdowns, a pick), Michael Bush’s 157 yards and a touchdown on the ground may have been more important as it allowed Palmer to flourish, and the Raiders could control the clock. While they would love to have Darren McFadden back, Bush played very well against the Chargers in a huge divisional game. The defense frustrated Philip Rivers all night long, forcing a pick and a fumble while sacking the San Diego pivot six times, including four by Kamerion Wimbley as they took advantage of a few injuries to the Chargers’ offensive line. Furthermore, they showed they could be physical without taking penalties, committing only seven and giving the Chargers just two first downs due to flags. That doesn’t sound like much, but for Oakland, it’s a good start.
McFadden (foot) will likely sit this game out and he hasn’t even practiced since October 23rd, so it may be time for NFL betting players looking at Oakland to get a little worried. Receiver Jacoby Ford (foot) is in a walking boot and he is also doubtful to suit up, robbing the Raiders of arguably their best receiver, although that part of their offense is relatively deep and young. Oakland can’t afford any more injuries as they have a tough schedule coming down the stretch, and they need all the offensive weapons they can get as Palmer becomes more comfortable.
Why Bet On Minnesota Vikings (2-7 SU, 4-4-1 ATS)
Minnesota fell behind 17-0 with just over 12 minutes left in the first half, and never got on track in a 45-7 rout at the hands of the Packers in Green Bay. Christian Ponder was 16-of-34 for 190 yards and an interception, but the large lead meant that the Packers could blitz the rookie with impunity. The deficit also meant that Adrian Peterson was taken out of the game with 51 yards on 14 carries, although he did score Minnesota’s only touchdown. As for the defensive performance, Minnesota had no answer for Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay offense, allowing them to score on four of five red-zone trips, although the Vikings didn’t do themselves any favors with four penalties that moved the chains for the Packers. It was a disheartening performance, especially on a Monday night, but how much can you really fault the Vikings against the defending Super Bowl champions who have been dismantling everyone in their path? At least Ponder kept trying as the rest of the season is one big learning experience for the former Florida State star.
It could get even worse for the Vikings as Antonio Winfield (clavicle) is gone for the season and now Minnesota is without their best cornerback. That isn’t good news as the Vikings were 30th in the league against the pass with Winfield in the lineup; the Raiders can really expose the Minnesota secondary, but of course, they’ll have to protect Palmer from Jared Allen, who has 13.5 sacks this season. Minnesota can also target Oakland’s 25th-ranked run defense with Peterson, who should be the No.1 option early and often if the Vikings want to come away with the victory.
How It Will Play Out
Oakland is a 1-point NFL betting favorite on the road in Minnesota, and these two have split their last four meetings since 1993 when it comes to SU and ATS marks, with two games going over the total. Of course, they’ve split their two meetings in Minnesota. Factor in a short week for the Vikings and you have your line for this contest.
The Raiders should be able to snag a victory, although it’s not going to be an easy game as they could have some big problems with Peterson, who will be out for a big game after not getting a lot of work on Monday. Oakland is 4-0 ATS on the road this year and they have a lot more to play for than the Vikings, so look for them to come out inspired and use some big plays against a depleted Minnesota secondary. Make Oakland your pick to cover the sports betting spread this week.
Raiders Vikings Betting Pick: Oakland Raiders