Show me love for Minnesota +6

Here’s why:

Adrian Peterson, Adrian Peterson, Adrian Peterson.  If you mention the Vikings in conversation you undoubtedly turn to talking about the running game - as in it’s all they have offensively and teams have a heck of time running against them.  The Vikings hold a sizeable lead on the league in rushing yards per game with 183.1 ypg (#2 is Pittsburgh at a lofty 150.5 ypg), and a solid #2 in rushing yards against with 70.4 ypg.  Last I checked the Packers couldn’t run on anyone.  Not to mention their ‘knight in shining armor’ Ryan Grant went out with a concussion last week - that won’t help their dead-last 2.6 yard per carry average.

Yes, the Pack is back this year a die-hard cheese head would gloat…  However, in the betting world they may not be as good as their record leads on.  Close games have been the Packers style so far this season, and more than a few of those W’s could be L’s.  This is all of a sudden a huge emotional, meaningful divisional game who will step up to the plate?  Over the last 8 seasons, the underdog has covered in 14 of the 16 meetings, with 1 loss and a push to fill.  39 points total have decided the last 10 meetings - with 1 lone game coming via more points then this line (even that was only a 7 point game).

 SIDE NOTES:

• Peterson seems to get better as team stack the line.  Over the last month he has broken off TD runs of 20, 35, 46, 64, 67 and 73 yards.  Look for Peterson to put one up from just about anywhere on any down right now.
• For a ultra-competitive division rivalry - some huge points are being laid.  Not saying the Vikes win flat out - but I’ll say they keep it close enough to cover.

Final words of wisdom:  Luck is a huge part of professional sports (Ask a Denver fan why they aren’t 0-8) - and in part luck plays a roll in betting on sports.  Knowing how to ride the emotions of a lucky win is how the Vegas odds makers make money - they know fans have emotions too!  Turn the tables and don’t be lucky - be smart!

-Take care! Good luck *wink*!

This entry was posted on Friday, November 9th, 2007 at 4:35 pm and is filed under Jesse Podoll. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.