Las Vegas Raiders vs. Minnesota Vikings 8/10/24 – The NFL preseason begins with an interesting match as the Las Vegas Raiders (8-9 last season) visit the Minnesota Vikings (7-10 last season) at U.S. Bank Stadium on August 10, 2024, this Saturday. Both teams are eager to start the new season on a positive note after recording less than half win percentages. If you are keen and planning to watch this game at 4:00 PM ET on NFL Network, here are some free football preseason tips to consider in terms of what can be expected from these two teams early in the 2024 NFL season’s opening weeks.
Las Vegas Raiders vs. Minnesota Vikings 8/10/24 Game Info |
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When: | Saturday, August 10, 2024 at 4:00 PM ET |
Where: | U.S. Bank Stadium |
TV: | NFL Network |
Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Las Vegas Raiders (8-9 Last season) vs. Minnesota Vikings (7-10 Last season)
Last season the Raiders’ offense had some hopeful moments, particularly in terms of the run and air attack dynamics. Zamir White, the running back, went through a difficult season but had flashes of brilliance. In 17 games, White ran 104 times for 451 yards, which makes it an average per attempt of 4.3 yards though he only got into the end zone once. However, Davante Adams stood out among other players for the raiders with his elite receiving abilities, scoring eight touchdowns on 103 receptions and totaling 1,144 yards in as many games at an impressive 11.1 yards.
On the other hand, Minnesota struggled all through last season but showed some glimpses of hope. Alexander Mattison was the leading rusher gaining a cumulative total of 700 yards on 180 carries but without ever crossing into the opponents’ end zone once. The star power definitely revolved around wide receiver Justin Jefferson who amassed a total of 1,074 receiving yards from just68 catches over ten games despite nursing injuries that made him miss six games thus far Minnesota’s most valuable offensive player.
Aidan O’Connell QB vs. Nick Mullens QB
Raiders’ Aidan O’Connell had mixed fortunes in his last campaign. By the conclusion of 11 games, he had completed 213 out of 343 passes, accumulating a total of 2,218 passing yards at a completion rate of 62.1%. His performance was tarnished to some extent by 7 interceptions against twelve touchdowns. The quarterback has shown great ability at locating his receivers deep downfield; however, this notwithstanding, he appears vulnerable when under pressure as evidenced by twenty-four sacks.
Nick Mullens played fewer games but still showed strong potential last season. He completed100 out of his 148 passes which translates to a higher completion percentage of 67.6%. He threw for 1306 yards and averaged eight point eight yards per pass attempt while throwing seven touchdowns and also eight interceptions. Higher efficiency per attempt/game suggests that Mullens can be a game-changer in any match provided he is secured and on song.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Minnesota Vikings -2.5 -110, Total Odds: 33
The betting odds are slightly tilted in favor of the Vikings at -2.5, reflecting perhaps a home-field advantage and perhaps slightly more faith in Mullens’ passing efficiency over O’Connell’s. The total set at 33 points indicates expectations of a typically lower-scoring preseason affair, where defenses are still finding their rhythm.
Las Vegas Raiders Betting Trends
The Raiders have been strong against the spread, going 4-0-1 in their last 5 games, indicating a robust performance relative to expectations. However, their record against Minnesota has not been as favorable, with a 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 matchups. Their on-the-road performance also raises concerns, as they are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games away from home.
Minnesota Vikings Betting Trends
Minnesota’s recent betting trends do not inspire much confidence, with a 0-4-2 ATS record in their last 6 games, and a worrying 1-6 SU in their last 7 games. Their home record is particularly troubling at 2-9 SU in their last 11 games at U.S. Bank Stadium. However, they have a strong record ATS in recent matchups against Las Vegas, going 4-1 in their last 5 encounters at home.
Las Vegas Raiders vs. Minnesota Vikings 8/10/24 Betting Picks
Presenting a nuanced perspective on a pre-season game, it is analyzed by checking the betting trends and team dynamics. The Vikings have managed to win against the Raiders at home despite their poor overall and home records. When taken together with the away games that are not giving victory to the Raiders, this may imply a small advantage for Minnesota in covering -2.5 spread.
In terms of prop bets, those considering under total might find it interesting, given both teams have been inconsistent offensively so far as well as normal tendency of early preseason matches towards defensive play. Also follow who’ll make the starting lineup at quarterback since they are essential to their team’s success.
This will be a close game between two teams where defense will prevail and both sides would want to find their rhythm with the ball. With a little luck Vikings can scrape through at home by winning a closely fought match. Should you need premium game predictions, then keep an eye on under as well as Minnesota covering.