2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 5

Detroit Lions (0-4) at Minnesota Vikings (1-3)

Sunday, October 10, 1PM ET

The Minnesota Vikings are going to get it together at some point, right? They’re 1-3 but all three losses have been close. However, it seems like every week, either the offense or defense doesn’t show up. Maybe the whole team will make an appearance at U.S. Bank Stadium in Week 5?

If the Vikings are going to turn things around, this is the best week to do it. The Detroit Lions, their NFC North foes, have limped to an 0-4 start, allowing a leaking defense and solid-but-unspectacular offense to keep them from tasting victory. The Vikings have them beaten on paper, but anything can happen when this inconsistent team takes the field.

For the purpose of this piece, though, I’m going to assume Minnesota makes a statement in this one. Sure, beating a winless team isn’t going to skyrocket them in the power rankings. But it will stop the bleeding and convince other clubs to at least take them seriously.

The Vikings get after Goff early and often, forcing the bipolar quarterback into one of his classic meltdowns. Kirk Cousins has a good game, and the Minnesota running game puts it on ice as the Twin Cities celebrate a much-needed win.

Prediction: Vikings win 27-17 | Spread: Vikings (-8)