NFL Week 1 betting comes to a close when the Minnesota Vikings visit the Chicago Bears on Monday Night Football.
Top-10 2024 selections do battle in the Windy City, with J.J. McCarthy making his injury-delayed pro debut against Caleb Williams. Both teams are set up well for their young quarterbacks to thrive in 2025.
Here are my early Vikings vs. Bears predictions and NFL picks for Monday, September 8.
Vikings vs Bears predictions
Here are our early thoughts on the spread and total for this week’s game. We will have a full game preview (with a best bet and SGP) later in the week.
Early Vikings vs Bears spread pick: Minnesota Vikings -1.5 (-110)
J.J. McCarthy will be in the primetime spotlight in Week 1, but luckily for him, the Minnesota Vikings have a stable setup of support. The Vikings have invested in pass protection, have one of the most disruptive defenses, along with any QB’s best friend: Justin Jefferson.
It’s the Vikings’ defense that will make the difference in Week 1. The Chicago Bears focused their attention on bolstering the offensive line this offseason. And it’ll need it. Minnesota brings a ton of blitz, cooking up pressure and translating that chaos into sacks and takeaways.
The Bears are working in a new system from head coach Ben Johnson, who had success versus the Vikes in Detroit. But Chicago isn’t as talent-rich as the Lions, and there’s going to be a steep learning curve in Week 1.
In a near pick’em game, I’ll take the better defense.
Early Vikings vs Bears total pick: Over 44.5 (-105)
The Bears' stop unit was respectable in 2024 thanks to a strong pass rush that disrupted QBs and led to 24 takeaways. After some lifeless preseason showings, Chicago might not have the same bite in 2025, and that leaves a soft secondary exposed.
McCarthy has a great offensive line in front of him, and even with the WR corps a bit thin, Jefferson and TE T.J. Hockenson make life easy on the young quarterback. While he didn’t suit up in the preseason, all the reviews on McCarthy out of camp are glowing.
And speaking of preseason, Caleb Williams and the Bears' attack turned heads in the preseason. While it was limited reps, Chicago’s offense looked great and brings plenty of pop to the MNF party. Williams had one of his best games against Minnesota last season and will put points on the board against this low total.
Vikings vs Bears odds
- Vikings vs Bears spread: Bears -1
- Vikings vs Bears moneyline: Vikings +105, Bears -115
- Vikings vs Bears Over/Under: 44.5
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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