Most Experts Are Picking San Francisco to Beat Minnesota

Mike Zimmer Vikings Head Coach
May 26, 2021; Eagan, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer at OTA at TCO Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

A few moments perusing the NFL game predictions leaves one with the feeling that most league experts are rolling with the 49ers. It makes some sense. The Vikings are their own worst enemy, they’re playing on the road, and they’re dinged up along the defensive line. Even still, it’s notable that so many are picking San Francisco to beat Minnesota on Sunday.

Both predictors on Pro Football Talk are picking the 49ers. Here is what Florio has to say: “Another close game for the Vikings. Another coin-flip ending. This time, it comes up tails.” He picks SF to snag the win by a score of 24-20.

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CBS Sports gives this explanation to partner with their 27-26 49ers win: “In terms of the playoff picture, this is a big game. The 49ers have righted things with two straight victories, but their defense will be challenged by the Minnesota passing game. San Francisco’s run game and quick passing game will be tough to deal with for the Minnesota defense. I will go with the Vikings to keep this one close, with the 49ers pulling it out late.”

ESPN has ten people picking games; four chose the Vikings. In The Athletic piece I discussed earlier, both writers chose San Francisco to beat Minnesota. Heck, even Dustin’s staff predictions for Vikings Territory has a lot of Red & Gold. I’m far from an expert, but I chose the 49ers.

Everyone understands that tomorrow’s game is supremely important for the playoff race. “We’ve got to put all our focus,” Mike Zimmer explained, “on this particular game and then we’ll worry about next week and the next week.” Dalvin Cook similarly acknowledged how important of a game it is: “We’ve got to take it one game at a time. San Fran is on the schedule so we’ve got to go take care of business.” The worst thing the Vikings can do is look backward or forward. Upsetting SF will take a great effort.

Zim thrives in an underdog role. He hasn’t always been able to get the Vikings to win those games, but he commonly uses doubt to motivate himself and his players. Perhaps all the SF hype will be just enough to help Minnesota get the massive win.



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