Bears-Vikings: NFL betting odds, picks, tips - ESPN

Week 12 of the 2023 NFL season wraps up Monday night with the Minnesota Vikings (6-5) hosting the Chicago Bears (3-8).

What can we expect from a betting standpoint?

Betting analysts Eric Moody,Seth Walder, Tyler Fulghum and Aaron Schatz are here to provide their thoughts.

Note: Odds by ESPN BET.

Fulghum: This is a tough side to take. We've seen money move the Bears from +3.5 to +3. That might seem insignificant, but it's enough to make me pass on betting a side. I liked getting that extra hook with the Bears. Now that it's no longer available, I can't commit. The total interests me a bit. I know prime-time unders are all the rage, but this game is indoors and both QBs have explosive ability with their legs and through the air. Sorry there isn't much conviction here, but sometimes you just have to admit that the books have it right and there is no edge in handicapping.

Pick NFL games every week and compete for prizes! FREE to play.
Make Your Picks

Moody: I'm backing the Vikings to cover the spread against the Bears. Quarterback Joshua Dobbs, receiver Jordan Addison and tight end T.J. Hockenson should have a great deal of success against a Bears defense that gives up the fourth-most points per game. Minnesota's defense shouldn't be overlooked in this matchup. The Vikings' defensive front has allowed the eighth-fewest rushing yards per game to opponents. With its personnel, Minnesota is very capable of slowing down the Bears' running attack, which ranks fourth in rushing attempts and fourth in rushing yards per game. Chicago might be forced to rely heavily on Justin Fields and its passing game, which is unlikely to be a recipe for success. The Vikings are 5-2 against the spread in their past seven games against Chicago.