Following a flurry of quarterback swaps at the trade deadline, this week’s NFL slate features intriguing matchups with new signal-callers under center, notably the Seattle Seahawks hosting the Las Vegas Raiders and the Minnesota Vikings visiting the Green Bay Packers. The Seahawks, despite a solid defense, are turning to Drew Lock again with Sam Darnold sidelined, a move that Lock has navigated competently, posting nearly 600 yards and five touchdowns in his previous starts, leading some to argue the team has performed better with him. Meanwhile, the Raiders, who have stumbled to a 4-5 record and a dismal 1-3 home record, are also ushering in a new era with Fernando Mendoza taking over after trading away Kirk Cousins, facing a significant challenge against a defense ranked 26th against the pass and last against the run, though a home boost and Mendoza’s potential could offer a glimmer of hope, with the under also being a sensible bet given both offenses’ struggles. In the other marquee game, Kirk Cousins returns to Minnesota, where he had a career resurgence, to lead the Vikings against his former team, the Packers. While Cousins is an undeniable upgrade at quarterback, questions linger about his ability to replicate past success without offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, despite the Vikings’ strong defense and depth at the position. The Packers, sitting at 6-3, are looking to avenge an earlier loss to the Vikings, with Jordan Love showing improvement and a capable running game, facing a solid defense. Despite the Vikings’ offensive potential with Cousins, the short week, unfamiliarity, and road environment against a motivated Packers team make Minnesota a risky proposition, leading to a lean towards the Packers covering the spread.
Adapted from: Latest & Breaking News on Fox News
