The Chicago Bears are already out of playoff contention with a 3-8 record, while the Minnesota Vikings still have a shot at a playoff spot.
The Vikings vs Bears head-to-head is a crucial game in the NFC North. The former, the favorites, need the W for their playoff push after last week's Detroit Lions' defeat. A Bears victory can disrupt the table in favor of the Green Bay Packers.
Minnesota has to hold out for the other key players that could return. They need to win while waiting for them, including top receiver Justin Jefferson, who, according to coach Kevin O'Connell, is on track in his recovery.
"He took part in some team reps, consistent work here and there, getting him prepared if he's able to play," said O'Connell. "We want to find that balance where we're not pushing him potentially too far, too soon."
The roster is lacking, but winning is expected of the Vikings against the Bears for ESPN's Monday Night Football. The game will be held at 7:15 p.m. (CT).
Vikings vs. Bears Week 12 Odds
Several games might separate the two in the table, but many expect this to be a tight one.
The Bears are improving in some offense departments while the Vikings continue to adjust to losing key players, including star quarterback Kirk Cousins.
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Money Line: Odds have the Vikings winning (-148), although the Bears are just within the distance (+124).
Caesar's Sportsbook also sees a tight finish.
Spread: Bears +3.5 (-110) | Vikings -3.5 (-110)
Over/Under: OVER 43 (-110) | UNDER 43 (-110)
Vikings vs. Bears Week 12 Preview
Joshua Dobbs has to repeatedly prove himself for the Vikings as a replacement for Cousins, who got injured on October 29.
It was almost but not quite for him against the Denver Broncos, where they lost by just one point. It is the team's 45th game, decided by one score since 2020.
The Passtronaut is making a good account of himself on the field, although the overall offensive system can still improve. He has 2,216 passing yards through 11 games this year, with a 201.5 per game average. His completion rate is at 63.5%, while touchdowns are at 12.
The Bear should not be counted out right away. They almost pulled off the win against the Lions, who had to climb a 12-point hole.
The Bears boast an against-the-spread record of 3-3-1 in their seven games as an underdog of 3 points or more this year. They have won two of the nine games they've played as the non-favorites.
Vikings vs. Bears Week 12 Pick
The Vikings are heavy favorites in this game, with around 97 percent of NFL writers on their side, as they should. Both are coming off moral victories last season, but the Vikings are more composed and have better tools in offense and defense.
The Bears' offense will have to be surgical in getting past Danielle Hunter (51 tackles, 16 TFL, and 12 sacks this season) and Camryn Bynum (91 tackles, two TFL, 0.5 sacks, and two interceptions).
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