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Steelers vs Vikings Odds, Lines, Picks, and Predictions for Week 14 TNF

Robert Duff

by Robert Duff in NFL Football

Updated Dec 8, 2021 · 12:31 PM PST

Steelers vs Vikings
Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt (90) reacts after a sack in the fourth quarter during an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Dec. 5, 2021, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Justin Berl)
  • The Minnesota Vikings are 3-point home favorites over the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL’s Week 14 edition of TNF on Thursday, December 9
  • TNF Betting Record: 1-0 ML; 5-5 ATS; 1-1 O/U; +0.16 units
  • Pittsburgh has won four of the last five meetings with Minnesota

The Minnesota Vikings just lost to the worst team in the NFL. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers toppled the best team in their division.

The Vikings fell 29-27 at Detroit, handing the 1-10-1 Lions their first victory of the season. At the same time, Pittsburgh was ending a two-game skid via a 20-19 verdict over the AFC North-leading Baltimore Ravens.

Still, it’s the Vikings that oddsmakers are opting to roll with as these clubs clash in the Week 14 edition of the NFL’s weekly TNF showcase game. Minnesota is set as a 3-point home favorite over the visiting Steelers. Pittsburgh is 3-2 against the spread as an away underdog this season.

Steelers vs Vikings Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
Pittsburgh Steelers +144 +3 (-105) O 43.5 (-110)
Minnesota Vikings -172 -3 (-115) U 43.5 (-110)

Odds as of December 8th at FanDuel

The kickoff for Thursday’s game under the dome at US Bank Stadium is set for 8:20 pm ET. FOX Sports is carrying the broadcast.

Steelers vs Vikings Line Movement

Even though bettors are showing a fancy for the Vikings in point spread wagering, the line is still shortening. Minnesota opened as the 3.5-point pick and 60% of handle and 54% of spread betting is backing the Vikes in the NFL public betting trends.

When it comes to the moneyline, though, it’s the Steelers that the public is liking. Pittsburgh is drawing 63% of handle and 57% of bets in moneyline wagering. That’s seen Pittsburgh’s line shrink from +160 to +144.

As far as the total, it’s also shortened by a full point. The number in the opening line was 44.5 points. The Under is drawing 63% of handle and 57% of bets.

No QB Will Be Safe

There’s not a lot that either of these teams both do well, but getting after the other team’s quarterback is certainly one trait they share. The Steelers lead the NFL with 37 sacks. Right behind them with 36 sacks are the Vikings.

Last week, Pittsburgh ended up sacking elusive Baltimore QB Lamar Jackson seven times. Leading the way with a career-high 3.5 sacks was edge rusher TJ Watt. He leads the NFL with 16 sacks, even though Watt missed two games this season while in COVID protocol.

It’s about community with the Vikings. There are 16 different Minnesota defenders with a sack this season. Danielle Hunter leads the way with six sacks.

Minnesota is among the NFL leaders in QB hurries (68) and QB pressures (133). Pittsburgh’s offensive line has allowed 175 QB pressures this season, the most in the NFL.

Steelers vs Vikings Injury Report

The Steelers have some issues at left guard. Starter BJ Finney (back) is questionable and backup Joe Haeg (illness) is out. On the defensive side of the ball, nose tackle Isaiah Buggs (ankle) and left cornerback Joe Haden (foot) are questionable.

Minnesota is hurting at the offensive skill positions. Running back Dalvin Cook (shoulder) is questionable. Wide Receiver Adam Thielen (ankle) is doubtful. Left tackle Christian Darrisaw (ankle) is another key offensive starter who is questionable. Defensive end Everson Griffen (illness) is on IR.

Steelers vs Vikings Betting Trends

Another trait the Vikings and Steelers share – they’re the only teams in the NFL that can say they’ve managed to take the field for a game with the lowly Lions and not beat them. Pittsburgh and Detroit tied 16-16 in Week 10.

Pittsburgh hasn’t lost a game to Minnesota in North America since 1995. Vikings QB Kirk Cousins is 8-17 all-time in prime time games. That’s a .320 winning percentage.

Minnesota vs Pittsburgh Prediction

Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is coming off his best game of the season. He was 21-of-31 through the air for 236 yards, two TDs and a 111.8 passer rating in the win over the Ravens. But how well will his ailing, 39-year-old broken-down body respond on short rest?

Pittsburgh’s woeful run game was displaying signs of life last week. If that trend continues, the Steelers should be good for the upset. And let’s not forget that the list of QBs who’ve beaten the Vikings this season includes Jared Goff, Sam Darnold and Cooper Rush.

Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers +3 (-110)

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