The Minnesota Vikings (1-0) host the San Francisco 49ers (1-0) in Week 2 at U.S. Bank Stadium, and it could be a revenge game for Vikings QB Sam Darnold, who was the 49ers’ backup last season. After an impressive win over the New York Giants, Darnold and the Vikings face a much tougher test against the defending NFC champions.
The 49ers, led by Brock Purdy, also had a strong Week 1, dominating the New York Jets 32-19 on Monday Night Football. Even with key injuries, including Christian McCaffrey’s absence, San Francisco remains the favorite in this matchup, with oddsmakers giving them the edge to move to 2-0 on the season.
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Game Details:
– Matchup:San Francisco 49ers vs. Minnesota Vikings
– Date: Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024 (Week 2)
– Time: 1 p.m. ET
– Location: U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, Minnesota
– Watch: CBS
Odds Summary (via DraftKings Sportsbook):**
– Spread: 49ers -6 (-110), Vikings +6 (-110)
– Moneyline: 49ers -258, Vikings +210
– Total (Over/Under):45 (-112/-108)
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49ers vs. Vikings Moneyline
The 49ers are heavily favored, and for good reason. Even without McCaffrey, their offense performed well, with Jordan Mason rushing for 147 yards and a touchdown in Week 1. Meanwhile, their defense smothered the Jets, limiting Aaron Rodgers to just one passing touchdown.
While Minnesota’s win over the Giants was impressive, Darnold faces a much bigger challenge this week against a defense that knows him well. If there’s anyone who can exploit Darnold’s weaknesses, it’s 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan.
Pick: 49ers (-258). San Francisco should win outright, even on the road.
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49ers vs. Vikings Spread
The 49ers were one of the best road teams last season, going 6-3 against the spread. Despite Darnold’s solid debut in Minnesota, he is less reliable under pressure, and San Francisco’s aggressive defense—led by Joey Bosa, Fred Warner, and Leonard Floyd—could cause him problems.
San Francisco’s offense, even without key players like McCaffrey and with Brandon Aiyuk out of sync in Week 1, still dominated the Jets. With Aiyuk and Purdy getting back into rhythm, expect the Niners to cover the -6 spread.
Pick: 49ers -6 (-110). San Francisco should win by at least a touchdown.
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49ers vs. Vikings Over/Under
The total is set at 45 points, suggesting an implied final score of 25.5-19.5 in favor of the 49ers. San Francisco’s defense is expected to limit Darnold and the Vikings’ offense, while the 49ers’ efficient offense should score consistently, even if McCaffrey remains out.
Given Darnold’s potential struggles and San Francisco’s stout defense, the Under looks like the safer bet.
Pick: Under 45 (-108). San Francisco’s defense will likely keep the score lower than expected.
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49ers vs. Vikings Prop Bets
– Brandon Aiyuk Over 3.5 Receptions (-140): Aiyuk had a quiet Week 1, catching just two passes, but with a full week of practice under his belt, expect him to see more targets from Purdy.
– Sam Darnold Over 0.5 Interceptions (-145): Darnold has struggled with turnovers throughout his career, and facing a defense that knows him well, he’s likely to throw at least one pick.
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Final Score Prediction
While Minnesota looked strong in Week 1, this is a much tougher test than the New York Giants. San Francisco’s defense is one of the best in the league, and their offense, even without McCaffrey, should put up points. If Brandon Aiyuk can get back into rhythm, the 49ers should have no trouble handling the Vikings.
Prediction:49ers 27, Vikings 17. San Francisco will cover the spread and keep Minnesota’s offense in check, moving to 2-0 on the season.
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Best Bets Summary
– Moneyline: 49ers (-258). Even with key injuries, San Francisco is the better team and should win outright.
– Spread: 49ers -6 (-110). The Niners are expected to cover the spread and win by at least a touchdown.
– Total: Under 45 (-108). The 49ers’ defense will likely keep Darnold in check and the score low.
– Prop 1: Brandon Aiyuk Over 3.5 Receptions (-140). Aiyuk is likely to have a stronger performance in Week 2 after a quiet Week 1.
– Prop 2: Sam Darnold Over 0.5 Interceptions (-145). Darnold has struggled with turnovers, and San Francisco’s defense should capitalize on that.
