Is this the year for the Minnesota Vikings after landing one of the prized free agents of the offseason? Oddsmakers from various sports books have odds out on all 32 NFL teams and their chances to win the 2009 Super Bowl. The Vikings are currently 18/1 long shots.
The Vikings hauled in a huge offseason piece, trading for former Kansas City Chiefs’ defensive end Jared Allen. Along with Pat Williams and Kevin Williams, Allen gives the Vikings one of the best defensive lines in the league. Minnesota also lured deep threat Bernard Berrian from rival Chicago, and signed safety Madieu Williams (Bengals) to boost the secondary.
Many feel that the Vikings are the sleeper team in the entire NFL. They have a dynamic young running back in Adrian Peterson, an improving quarterback in Tavaris Jackson, and solid offensive and defensive lines. Is Jackson ready to take the next step? That seems to be the main question surrounding this team, but offseason reports say he’s made huge strides in camp.
Minnesota was given fairly decent odds by the sports books. Current prices on the Vikings’ chances to win the 2009 Super Bowl range from 18/1 at Sportsbook.com and Bodog, to 30/1 at SBG Global.
Oddsmakers have also set the Vikings’ over/under total for wins in 2008 at 8.5, but clearly think Minnesota will lose more than 8.5 games considering the under pays out at –125 compared to -105 for the over.
It’s easy to see why so many football enthusiasts like the Vikings. They have a solid running game, offensive line and one of the best defensive lines in the league. They can also stop the run and now with Allen, rush the passer, so they seem set to thrive this season. Jackson’s development is key, but having Peterson and Berrian in the same huddle will do wonders for the young signal caller. Now might be the best time to hop on the Vikings before everyone else does.
Minnesota Vikings Odds to Win 2009 Super Bowl
SBG Global 30-1
Bodog 18-1
Sportsbook.com 18-1
Minnesota Vikings 2008 Regular Season Win Totals Odds
Minnesota Vikings Over 8.5 Wins (-105)
Minnesota Vikings Under 8.5 Wins (-125)