When the Vikings (6-4) travel to Denver to face the Broncos (4-5) on "Sunday Night Football" in Week 11 (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC), they will be looking to extend their winning streak to an incredible six games. Meanwhile, the Broncos also are hot, having won three straight games with victories over the Chiefs and Bills in their past two.
Minnesota has been playing without wide receiver Justin Jefferson (hamstring), but he has a chance to return for SNF. Red-hot fill-in QB Josh Dobbs (ankle) and tight end T.J. Hockenson (rib) are good to go. Wide receiver K.J. Osborn will return from his concussion, while running back Alexander Mattison almost certainly won't.
Denver comes into the game overall rather healthy around QB Russell Wilson, and like Minnesota, it's shown much-improved defense of late. This should make for a compelling interconference matchup.
Here's a betting breakdown and prediction for Vikings-Broncos:
Vikings vs. Broncos odds, spread, over/under
(All odds courtesy of Caesars Sportsbook)
Spread: Vikings +2.5 (-110) | Broncos -2.5 (-110)
Over/Under: OVER 42.5 (-110) | UNDER 42.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Vikings +115 | Broncos -135
The Broncos have been less-than-field-goal favorites since the initial lines, something that didn't change much after they won at Buffalo. The Vikings crushed New Orleans as slight home underdogs last week.
Should you bet the Broncos against the spread vs. Vikings?
The Broncos keep getting better under coach Sean Payton and defensive coordinator Vance Joseph. Wilson has gotten more help from Javonte Williams and the running game, while the defense, still vulnerable against the run, has held up better vs. the pass.
The Vikings, however, have looked sharper offensively of late with Josh Dobbs doing well in their pass-heavy scheme. Their blocking has been great, and should Justin Jefferson (hamstring) play, there will be tough matchups for the Broncos' secondary. Both teams can score well here, but neither is pulling away from the other.
Spread pick: Vikings +2.5 (-110)
Should you bet the Vikings on the moneyline?
Given the spread is less than a field goal, it's hard to call the Broncos winning by one or two points. The Vikings are well-coached and playing at an overall higher level. They are the better overall team when considering pass protection and pass rush. There's no reason to doubt Dobbs coming through vs. Wilson, either.
The Broncos have had a nice turnaround, but the Vikings are more complete and there should be every expectation Dobbs will continue to play well, despite the game being on the road.
Moneyline pick: Vikings +115
Should you bet the Vikings-Broncos OVER?
Between Dobbs and Wilson, there's too much offensive skill talent on the field, especially at wide receiver. The defenses have enough holes in coverage and against the run so both teams can have success moving the ball. Dobbs just gets a little more support to make one more key play than Wilson.
Our Pick: OVER 42.5 (-110)
Final score prediction: Vikings 24, Broncos 20
