Minnesota Vikings Large Favorite (-7.5+) Betting Trend

The Vikings' struggles as large favorites stem from their historical identity as a franchise that thrives in adversarial situations but falters when expectations are highest. Minnesota has built its culture around being the underdog, playing with a chip on their shoulder that dissipates when they're expected to dominate weaker opponents. This psychological dynamic creates a dangerous combination of overconfidence and reduced intensity that opponents can exploit. Schematically, the Vikings have often relied on defensive pressure and opportunistic offense rather than the methodical, grinding style needed to cover large spreads. When facing inferior teams, Minnesota tends to play down to competition level, taking their foot off the gas once they establish a comfortable lead. Their defensive aggressiveness can also backfire against desperate opponents willing to take more risks, leading to big plays that keep games closer than the talent differential suggests. The franchise's playoff disappointments have created a mentality where they struggle to maintain focus during "should-win" games, treating them as stepping stones rather than serious contests. This complacency has historically cost them in spread situations where style points matter. This trend becomes most critical when Minnesota faces division rivals or teams with nothing to lose late in the season, where motivation imbalances are most pronounced.