Los Angeles Rams vs Minnesota Vikings: Betting Preview – October 24, 2024

• Teams: Los Angeles Rams vs Minnesota Vikings
• Week: Week 8
• Date: October 24, 2024
• Time: 8:15 PM ET
• Location: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California

Betting Odds

Reasons Why Los Angeles Rams Could Cover the Spread

1. Cooper Kupp’s Return Boosts the Offense

The return of star wide receiver Cooper Kupp is a major boost for the Rams’ offense. Kupp, one of the top receivers in the NFL, brings reliability, precise route running, and explosiveness to a receiving corps that has struggled in his absence. His presence should open up opportunities for the Rams' other playmakers and give quarterback Matthew Stafford a key target in crucial situations.

2. The Rams’ Defense Can Keep It Close

While the Rams’ record doesn’t reflect it, their defense has shown flashes of being able to slow down opposing offenses. They allow 364.3 yards per game, ranking 26th overall, but they have been effective at containing big plays. With key players like Aaron Donald anchoring the defensive line, the Rams have the capability to pressure Minnesota's quarterback, Sam Darnold, and force mistakes. Keeping Minnesota’s offense in check will be crucial to staying within the +3.0 spread.

3. Minnesota’s Vulnerability in Close Games

Minnesota has a 5-1 record, but they’ve been involved in several close games this season, including a 29-31 loss to Detroit last week. The Vikings have shown a tendency to play down to the competition, and their games often come down to the wire. This makes them vulnerable to a potential upset or at least a tight contest, which bodes well for the Rams to cover the +3.0 spread.

4. The Rams’ Passing Attack Can Exploit Minnesota’s Secondary

Although Minnesota’s defense has been strong overall, their secondary has shown vulnerabilities. The Vikings allow 212.7 passing yards per game, ranking 18th in the league. With Kupp’s return, the Rams can stretch the field and challenge Minnesota’s cornerbacks, creating opportunities for big plays. The Rams will look to exploit this and keep the game within reach.

5. The Rams Are Hungry for a Win at Home

The Rams are winless at home this season, which adds extra motivation to perform well at SoFi Stadium. Despite their 0-3 home record, two of those losses came in close games, showing that the Rams can compete against tougher opponents. With their home crowd behind them and a healthier roster, they have a legitimate shot to not only cover the spread but possibly win outright as underdogs.

Given the return of Cooper Kupp, Minnesota’s vulnerabilities in close games, and the Rams' potential to exploit the Vikings’ secondary, Los Angeles is well-positioned to cover the +3.0 spread in this primetime matchup.

Pick: Take Los Angeles +3