Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM ET
Location: U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN
TV: —
The New England Patriots travel to Minneapolis to take on the Minnesota Vikings in a Week 2 preseason clash that will be all about roster battles and system evaluations. New England looked sharp in their preseason debut, while Minnesota is aiming to rebound after an inconsistent opening performance.
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Matchup Overview
New England enters as a 3-point road favorite with the total set at 38.5. The Patriots will likely split QB duties between Jacoby Brissett and Bailey Zappe, giving rookie Joe Milton III some snaps late. Minnesota is expected to rotate Sam Darnold, Jaren Hall, and rookie J.J. McCarthy as they search for offensive rhythm.
New England Patriots
Offensively, New England’s quick passing game was efficient in their opener, with Brissett delivering accurate throws and Zappe executing well in hurry-up situations. The run game was solid behind Kevin Harris and JaMycal Hasty, keeping drives alive. Defensively, the Patriots excelled at collapsing the pocket, registering multiple sacks and limiting big plays over the top. Special teams were their usual strong point, with a blocked punt nearly leading to a touchdown. New England has now gone Under in six of their last eight preseason games.
Minnesota Vikings
Minnesota’s offense showed flashes, with Jaren Hall connecting on a few deep passes, but inconsistency in the red zone kept them from finishing drives. Rookie QB J.J. McCarthy is expected to see more time, which should energize the second half. The Vikings’ defense was aggressive early but struggled in coverage against slot receivers. Special teams coverage units were tested, giving up a long return that flipped field position. Minnesota has covered the spread in five of their last seven preseason home games.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Patriots Front Seven vs. Vikings O-Line Depth – New England’s defensive pressure could cause issues for Minnesota’s backup QBs.
- Slot Receiver Play – Both teams have young wideouts trying to prove themselves in tight-window throws.
- Special Teams Momentum Swings – Field position could decide this low-total game.
Betting Odds
- Spread: Patriots -3 / Vikings +3
- Total (O/U): 38.5
- Moneyline: Patriots -150 / Vikings +125
(Odds via ESPN BET at time of writing — subject to change)
Prediction
New England’s defensive depth gives them an edge, especially against a Minnesota offense still searching for consistency. If the Patriots’ offense can sustain drives with Brissett and Zappe, they should pull away late.
Projected Final Score:
Patriots 20 – Vikings 16
- Total Points: 36 → ✅ Under 38.5
- Margin: 4 points → ✅ Patriots cover -3
Best Bets
- Patriots -3 (-110) – New England’s defense should control the pace.
- Under 38.5 (-110) – Expect a slower, methodical game.
- First Half Patriots -1.5 (-110) – Their starting units should win the early battle.
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