Cowboys are favorites but defensive lapses make Vikings +5.5 an attractive cover; bettors could target Minnesota on the spread or a small moneyline if they expect an upset. Final-score lean: Cowboys 27, Vikings 24 — anticipate movement around the 47.5 total depending on weather and offensive form.
Vikings vs. Cowboys Week 15 Preview
The Cowboys saw their three-game winning streak end in Detroit last week but arrive with extra rest after Thursday Night Football. The Vikings rebounded from a 26-0 loss in Seattle by shutting out Washington 31-0 to snap a four-game skid. This matchup on Sunday Night features contrasting narratives: Dallas fighting to keep playoff hopes alive versus Minnesota trying to build momentum under a younger quarterback.
Odds, Spread and Total
Odds (subject to change)
Spread
Vikings +5.5 (-110) — Cowboys -5.5 (-110)
Moneyline
Vikings +220 — Cowboys -270
Total
47.5 (Over -110 / Under -110)
The spread has eased by half a point since opening, while the total has ticked down by one. That movement suggests bettors have shown more interest in Minnesota and some skepticism about a high-scoring affair.
Key Storylines and Matchup Notes
Cowboys defense: Dallas has struggled on defense this season, creating matchup opportunities for opponents that can attack downfield or sustain long drives. If the Cowboys' defense can't generate pressure, Minnesota's offense stands to capitalize.
Vikings momentum: After a dominant 31-0 win, Minnesota looks more settled. The offense showed it can execute, and the defense produced a shutout — both positives when evaluating the Vikings as underdogs.
Dak Prescott and Dallas offense: Dallas still relies on its playmakers and Prescott’s ability to manage the game. If the offense is off rhythm, the Cowboys could find themselves in tighter contests than expected.
Betting Angles and What Punters Should Consider
Spread
Vikings +5.5 looks playable if you expect Dallas' defensive issues to persist. The extra half-point the market has already given Minnesota makes the spread more attractive for those concerned about blowout risk.
Moneyline
The Vikings at around +220 offer reasonable upside for a small upset bet, particularly if you believe the Cowboys’ recent wins have included a fair share of luck.
Total
The 47.5 total sits in the middle — take the under if you expect defensive stands and a conservative Dallas game plan; take the over if you trust Minnesota’s recent offensive output to continue.
What Jim Harbaugh said about firing of Sherrone Moore at Michigan
Final Score Prediction
Cowboys 27, Vikings 24
Rationale: Dallas still has the offensive tools to win a close home game, but defensive vulnerabilities make this a narrow call. For bettors, the safest plays appear to be Vikings +5.5 on the spread or a small moneyline wager on Minnesota for value.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Dallas Cowboys betting odds, line movement, and final score prediction for NFL Week 15 on Sunday, December 14.
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