Dolphins vs. Vikings Free Pick
After such a disappointing start to the 2010 season, can the Minnesota Vikings get back on track as a favorite against the Miami Dolphins in Week 2?
Oddsmakers from online sports book Sportsbook.com have made the Vikings 5.5-point home favorites over the Dolphins this Sunday. The over/under total has been posted at 39.5 points.
The Dolphins Win If:
They can slow down Adrian Peterson and force Brett Favre to beat them in the passing game. Favre looked awfully rusty against the Saints last week and chances are, he’s going to look shaky again this Sunday too. He skipped all of training camp and still needs to get into a rhythm with receivers Percy Harvin and Bernard Berrian. Without Sidney Rice (hip), Favre could still have a tough time moving the ball through the air – especially if Miami limits AP. Brad Childress got away from Peterson last Thursday night as the game wore on, so if the Fish can limit the big play in the first half, chances are “Chilly” will panic again. And if the Dolphins can head into the fourth quarter with a lead or even one score down, they could easily win their second road game of the year.
The Vikings Win If:
Favre gets his head out of his ass. He basically used the Vikings’ opener to try and work out the timing issue he has with his receivers and outside of one drive before half, he never did figuring things out. The defense played exceptionally well – especially given all the weapons the Saints have on offense. It stands to reason that the defense can hold Miami to only a touchdown or two as well, especially given that Chad Henne doesn’t elicit the same fears as Drew Brees does. That said, Favre must be better in the passing game if the Vikings are not only going to cover, but win their first game of the new season.
Prediction:
It’s tough for a team to travel twice in two weeks and while the Dolphins won and covered last Sunday, they didn’t play particularly well. This game has ground attack written all over it, which is why I like the under 39.5. Until Favre can prove that he’s on the same page as his receivers, don’t expect much out of Minnesota’s passing game. And Miami wants to run the ball no matter what, so again, expect a somewhat low-scoring affair.
2010 NFL Week 2 Free Pick: DOLPHINS/VIKINGS UNDER 39.5
BONUS PICK: MINNESOTA VIKINGS –5.5