Prediction, odds and key players for Raiders vs. Vikings in Week 1 of the NFL preseason
The Raiders and Vikings face off at the start of the NFL preseason, and it’s shaping up to be two of the most exciting quarterback competitions in the league.
The Raiders brought in Gardner Minshew to compete with last year’s starter Aidan O’Connell at the end of the year, and the two are neck and neck in the race to be the starting QB in 2024. Meanwhile, free agent Sam Darnold has the edge over first-round pick JJ McCarthy, but the Michigan product will look to impress the coaching staff in his first live appearance.
Here’s everything you need to know about this Week 1 game, with odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook.
Spread
Money line
In total: 40.5 (Over -105/Under -115)
Las Vegas Raiders
Aidan O’Connell: The incumbent starter is expected to play about a quarter of the preseason, as will Minshew, in hopes that one player can separate himself from the other in live action. O’Connell appeared in 11 games last season and threw for 2,218 yards with 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions.
Minnesota Twins
JJ McCarthy: The No. 12 pick is expected to see the most playing time Saturday in his preseason debut, as everyone will see McCarthy in a real game for the first time. Can he be convincing enough to take the starting job from the experienced Darnold?
According to KOC, JJ McCarthy will get a lot of work. https://t.co/vgfTkTVvBv
– Alec Lewis (@alec_lewis) 8 August 2024
Given O’Connell’s short track record as a head coach, wins and losses in the preseason don’t seem to be his main focus, so I’m not interested in backing the Vikings as home underdogs.
Instead, I aim for the over.
With McCarthy expected to play a lot against a group of backups, I’m confident he’ll be able to succeed, and having players like Nick Mullens as the third quarterback gives me confidence that the Vikings offense can maintain a decent level of play.
For the Raiders, O’Connell and Minshew will play mostly substitutes for about a quarter of the game, so both quarterbacks should be able to move the ball.
I will avoid one side and play the over on Saturday.
TIP: OVER 40.5 (-105)
The game odds are updated regularly and are subject to change.
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