Rams vs. Vikings: Preview, score prediction for Week 11

Los Angeles Rams vs. Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings opened 5-0 last season and missed the playoffs with an 8-8 record. The Los Angeles Rams started 3-1 in 2016 and eventually finished 4-12 thanks to a seven-game losing streak to close out the season.

Now these two franchises are both atop their respective divisions with 7-2 record. Mike Zimmer’s club is rising a five-game winning streak and Sean McVay’s squad isn’t too far behind with four consecutive victories. It adds up to a pivotal clash that could have major postseason ramifications down the road.

Keys to Victory

The Rams’ balanced attack will present plenty of problems for a Minnesota defensive unit that is one of the best in the league. Running back Todd Gurley leads the NFL with 1,160 yards from scrimmage in nine games, running for 754 yards, totaling 35 receptions for 406 yards and totaling a combined 10 touchdowns.

He will put enormous pressure on the Vikings’ linebackers while the Los Angeles’ wide receiving corps stretches the field. Of course, if Minnesota’s pass rush can come up big, this becomes an entirely different game. Thus, we’ll have to see what version of the defense comes to play on Sunday.

Betting Odds

Point Spread: Vikings (-2.5)
Moneyline: Rams +122, Vikings -130
Over/Under: 46

Prediction

Two hot teams make for an intriguing contest in the Twin Cities. And it’s not a stretch that we could see the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings in a postseason match-up as well. The underlying factor in this game that isn’t getting enough attention is Wade Phillips’ defense.

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The Rams have held their last five opponents to 17 points or less. That may not be the case this week but they will create enough problems for Case Keenum and company as McVay’s club remains undefeated on the road this season.

Final Score: Los Angeles Rams: 27, Minnesota Vikings: 24