Both the Minnesota Vikings (7-6) and Cincinnati Bengals (7-6) are competing for position in their respective divisions for playoff hopes this season on Sunday, December 16 at 1:00 PM ET. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook has the Bengals moderately favored to win with a moneyline at -200.

When: December 16, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET

Where: Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio

Watch: NFL NET

Minnesota Vikings Preview

The Vikings recently snapped their two-game losing streak with one of the ugliest wins in the NFL over the last 16 years, with a 3-0 triumph over the Las Vegas Raiders. Ivan Pace Jr. was able to help seal their victory with a late interception. They are now 3-2 over their previous five matchups, with some positive momentum moving forward.

They are currently second in the NFC North, but it is a tight race for all teams in this division. One slip up and you could be at the bottom or clinging onto third.

The Vikings offense, as shown in their latest battle, has some issues landing points. So far this season, they rank 21st in points per game at 20.5. On defense, they stand out, allowing 18.6 points each game and rank fifth in the league.

The starting quarterback role is apparently up for grabs and can change anytime for the Vikings. After three scoreless quarters against the Raiders, they pulled Josh Dobbs and played Nick Mullens instead who completed more offense in two drives than Dobbs did in eight.

Cincinnati Bengals Preview

The Bengals have had a spark lately and have won their last two games and are now 2-3 in their last five. Their most recent success was a 34-14 stomping over conference rival Indianapolis Colts. The Bengals had a strong third quarter with 14 points unanswered to put them ahead.

The recent win pushed them forward to tie with the Pittsburgh Steelers for third in the AFC North and now they are only a game behind the second place Cleveland Browns. In other words, playoff hopes are still alive but they must capitalize here.

The Bengals are slightly below average on both sides of the ball. They are averaging 21.5 points per game and rank 17th in the league. Their defense has allowed 22.1 points per game, ranking 19th in the league.

Quarterback Jake Browning (5 TD, 2 INT) has done well since taking over for injured Joe Burrows and will need to keep this momentum going the rest of the year. He currently has 924 yards, a completion rate of 75.0, and a QBR of 60.4.

Betting Odds

ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook provides compelling NFL betting opportunities that are hard to beat. The Cincinnati Bengals are currently moderate favorites to succeed at home. In addition, market insights predict they have a 53.5 percent chance to win.

Minnesota Vikings: +170

Spread: +4.0 (-110)

Cincinnati Bengals: -200

Spread: -4.0 (-110)

Total: Over 39.0 (-110), Under 39.0 (-110)

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