Thursday Night Football features an NFC matchup between the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams in Week 8.
The Vikings (5-1) are coming off a tough loss to the division rival Lions, while the Rams (2-4) got a much-needed home win against the Raiders.
On this page, we’ll dive into the Vikings vs Rams matchup, including best bets and predictions for this Week 8 game.
Frank Ammirante 2024 TNF Betting Record: 10-13 (-2.5 units)
Vikings vs Rams TNF Odds Comparison
The Vikings are only short road favorites against the Rams because Cooper Kupp looks ready to return, providing a major lift to this stagnant offense.
All NFL odds referenced below are courtesy as of DraftKings Sportsbook, and current as of Monday, Oct. 21.
TNF Implied Score & Team Totals
Vikings 25.5, Rams 22.5
We’ve got a projected high-scoring game here because the Rams struggle on defense.
Add in the return of Cooper Kupp giving the Rams a chance to keep this one competitive, and you can see why the implied totals are relatively high.
Sportsbook Play of the Day
Thursday Night Football Prediction
TNF Score Prediction: Rams 27, Vikings 24
This sets up as a letdown spot for the Vikings, as they’re coming off a hard-fought home loss against the Lions, forced to travel to the west coast on a short week.
Meanwhile, this is the second straight home game for the Rams, so they haven’t had to travel for this one.
When you consider that Cooper Kupp is likely back for this game, you come away feeling even more confident in a Rams’ upset.
Let’s be honest — the Rams are much better than their current 2-4 record, they were just dealing with injuries to Kupp and others, like Puka Nacua.
On the other hand, the Vikings have probably overachieved considering they weren’t expected to be in the playoffs this year.
Give me Los Angeles to pull off the upset in this one.
Thursday Night Football Bet Tips
Keep these bet tips and trends in mind before making your Vikings vs Rams bets.
- Cooper Kupp is expected to return for this game.
- The Vikings are traveling east to west on a short week.
- The Rams are home for the second consecutive game.
Thursday Night Football Best Bets
TNF Over/Under Pick: Vikings @ Rams Over 48 Points (-112)
I’m expecting the Rams offense to look a lot more efficient with Cooper Kupp back in action.
I can also see the Vikings defense having a bit of a letdown on a short week.
Add in the fact that Los Angeles ranks 26th in Pass EPA and 28th in Rush EPA, and you have the perfect recipe for an Over.
Bet on the Over in our NFL play of the day.
TNF Pick Against the Spread: Rams +3 (-105) vs Vikings
I’m betting on a letdown from the Vikings on the short week as they travel out west.
Look for Cooper Kupp to provide enough of a boost to this Rams offense to keep this one close.
I like getting three points with the home underdog Rams in this matchup.
Thursday Night Football Prop Bet
Thursday Night Football Prop Bet will be posted once they are available.
Thursday Night Football Parlay
Thursday Night Football Parlay Bet will be included once more bets are posted.