A quarterback crisis across the NFL has thrust veterans Carson Wentz and Gardner Minshew into starting roles for Week 9, with Wentz making his Minnesota debut against Buffalo. The Vikings benched Kyler Murray after the offense averaged just 18.4 points over his last five starts, hoping Wentz can provide more effective passing than Murray's five touchdowns in six games.
Matt Youmans of the Las Vegas Review-Journal identifies the Vikings as one of his best bets for the weekend, noting that while Wentz won't turn Minnesota into "The Greatest Show on Turf," the change offers a welcome contrast to the stagnant attack. Youmans is also backing Tampa Bay as an underdog against Chicago on Sunday night, citing the historical angle of fading a popular public team after an impressive Monday night victory.
The Bears looked dominant in a 34-17 win at Seattle, with rookie Caleb Williams throwing for 247 yards and D'Andre Swift rushing for three touchdowns. However, Tampa Bay presents a stiffer test, ranking first in run defense at 80 yards per game and fifth in scoring defense at 18.9 points allowed. Baker Mayfield, despite a 2-3 record since his $165 million extension, has historically performed better as an underdog.
The quarterback instability extends league-wide. Baltimore was forced to start undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano in a 33-10 loss to Jacksonville after injuries to Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley, while Cleveland and Philadelphia plan to start rookies Shedeur Sanders and Joe Milton respectively. Sharp money at Circa Sports heavily backed the Ravens despite Fagnano's struggles, a losing ticket for professional bettors.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
English (US)·