306 MINNESOTA VIKINGS -5.5 vs 305 CHI
Analysis:
Even in losing, Minnesota played well last Thursday in Arizona after an ugly home loss a few days earlier to Seattle. 3 lost fumbles did them in vs the Cards. Chicago's Playoff chances are all but over after a pair of tough back to back home losses in games they were in position to either win or force overtime. Minnesota controls a Wild Card and can still catch Green Bay for the Division title. The Vikings have the edge in the rushing game, both on offense and defense. After back to back home losses to Green Bay and Seattle the Vikes step down in class and face a team they defeated 23-20 in Chicago earlier with an overall statistical edge but a - 1 turnover differential. And the extra time to prepare following back to back losses also helps. The Bears appear to be wearing down as a lack of depth had been an issue all season. Minnesota has one of the more physical defenses that has had success against teams built around finesse. Teams have had success running on Chicago's defense and the Vikes should have similar success as they did in their first meeting.