2019 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 7

Minnesota Vikings (4-2) at Detroit Lions (2-2-1)

Sunday, October 20, 1PM ET

It’s time to admit this Minnesota Vikings offense isn’t bad as it has looked at times this season. Yes, Kirk Cousins is one of the most inconsistent quarterbacks in the NFL. However, it appears someone got his head right, because he tore it up in Week 6.

Even against a quality Detroit Lions secondary, we should see more of the same in Week 7. Cousins is playing with more confidence, and he’s taking advantage of his duo of explosive wide receivers. Stefon Diggs is happy again, which will likely keep him working to get open against the Detroit pass defense on Sunday.

The Lions won’t lay down and give up this divisional game, though. Matthew Stafford has played some exceptional football this season, and the development of a running game has helped take pressure off his shoulders. The defense has also held up well, which is why we haven’t been able to count out Detroit as many assumed we’d be able to.

Still, the Vikings get the win in this one. Cousins comes up big again, and the fifth-ranked Minnesota defense does its usual thing. The Lions may even lead at halftime, but a strong third-quarter effort from the Vikings allows them to coast through the fourth to the finish line.

Prediction: Vikings win 28-17