Packers vs. Vikings prediction: NFL Week 1 odds, picks, best bets for NFC North rivalry

Matt LaFleur and the Packers open their season in Minnesota against their longtime division rivals, the Vikings, in Week 1.Last season, Green Bay held a 9-3-1 record after 13 games but struggled in the final stretch, losing four straight before the Bears eliminated them in the Wild Card round.In contrast, the Vikings, who started at 4-8, finished the season strong with a five-game winning streak under Kevin O’Connell.The teams split their series last year, though the Vikings won the season finale while key Packers starters including Jordan Love rested.Kyler Murray and the Vikings’ revamped offense are slight 2.5-point favorites at home on DraftKings Sportsbook. O’Connell is known as the quarterback whisperer, and his latest project is Murray, who is starting fresh after seven seasons with the Cardinals. All eyes will be on the dual-threat as he develops chemistry with one of the best wideouts in the game, Justin Jefferson and hands the ball off to Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason behind a stout offensive line.A key storyline to monitor is Murray’s transition into O’Connell’s heavy play-action scheme, which requires him to operate under center — a stark contrast to his time in Arizona. Minnesota utilized shotgun on just 55.8% of plays last year via NFL Savant, whereas Murray lined up in shotgun 79% of the time during his final Cardinals campaign, per Sharp Football Analysis. Another interesting angle baked into this contest is that Packers defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon knows Murray well, having coached him for three seasons in Arizona.The Packers defense will be without Micah Parsons, who is recovering from an ACL injury.In addition, starting running back Josh Jacobs remains on the commissioner’s exempt list.Catch up on The Post’s NFL betting previews and predictions for the 2026 seasonIn Jacobs’ absence, the Packers’ offense will utilize a running back committee led by Marshawn Lloyd. The Green and Yellow’s receiving corps includes ...