NFL Week 4: Minnesota Vikings vs Carolina Panthers Odds, and Picks (Oct 1)

• The Vikings lost 28-24 to the Chargers last time out.
• The Panthers were defeated 27-37 by the Seahawks on Sunday.
• These two teams have met 16 times with the Vikings leading 10-6 in the series.

The 0-3 Vikings travel to the 0-3 Panthers with both sides looking to pick up their first wins of the season.

How To Watch

• FOX

Game Preview

The Vikings’ defense couldn’t cope with the ariel threat of Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, and Joshua Palmer on Sunday and ultimately that was their downfall. QB Kirk Cousins continues to deliver despite being let down by his offensive line’s lack of protection. The veteran shot-caller threw 32/50 for 367 yards and three touchdowns but was sacked four times and hurried far too often. Alexander Mattison ran for 93 yards but was guilty of coughing the ball up a few times (albeit being reprieved by flags on the plays) and it wouldn’t be surprising to see Cam Akers take a healthy share of the snaps against Carolina.

Carolina struggled with their running game against the Seahawks, despite Miles Sanders managing to score. However, he proved ineffective for most of the game. Andy Dalton took the reigns at quarterback and is expected to start again, given that rookie Bryce Young is contending with an ankle injury. Veteran WR Adam Thielen put up an impressive performance against Seattle, catching 11 out of 14 passes for 145 yards and one touchdown. If Dalton is under center for this matchup then Thielen should see plenty more opportunities.

Prediction

The Vikings’ offense has looked okay so far this season, but their defense has cost them games. The Panthers should offer a slightly easier test for them than they have seen so far and I’m going for a Minnesota win here.

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