Minnesota is 3-11 ATS in its last 14 games. I don't expect the Vikings to cover this game either. The Ravens are 10-3 off a bye. They've won an NFL-high 11 straight against NFC foes. Baltimore is itching to play after getting blown out by the Bengals in its last game before its bye.

I used to like Mike Zimmer. Not so much anymore. I give the Ravens a strong coaching edge with John Harbaugh and his defensive coordinator, Wink Martindale. They've had an extra week to prepare. I expect a strong defensive game plan to limit the limited Kirk Cousins, who is more a glorified game manager than dangerous downfield passer to the detriment of supremely talented Justin Jefferson.

Cousins' repeated failure to convert on numerous third downs by throwing short of the first down marker against a mediocre Cowboys defense was sickening.

This is the first time the Vikings under Zimmer have faced Lamar Jackson. I'm not sure they know what's fully in store for them. Jackson is passing more, but remains the most dangerous running quarterback in football.

Jackson faces a Vikings defense devoid of several key defensive linemen, including star pass rusher Danielle Hunter, and also missing Patrick Peterson, their best cornerback. Hunter has 25 percent of the Vikings' sacks. Not helping matters for the Vikings are the down years experienced by veterans Anthony Barr and Harrison Smith.