10* UNDER Vikes/Lions (NFC NORTH TOY)

For a number of different reasons, I expect this total to stay "under" the posted number. The Vikes are 10-2, but they're slight underdogs here on the road vs. the 5-7 Lions. Detroit has inexplicably won four of its last five, but after last week's big 40-14 home victory over Jacksonville, I think the Lions will have a much harder time moving the ball vs. their divional opponent today. The first matchup of the season resulted in a 28-24 win for the Vikes, and the total went "over" the number of 51.5 in that one. But I think the rematch, considering the implications, will be a much more methodical, slower-paced defensive affair where field position becomes paramount. Look for Minnesota to pound the football via the run game while on offense, while also delivering a lot of pressure on the defensive side; this number is a little high, the play is the "under!"

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