Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings: Predictions, picks and odds for NFL Week 12 game

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The Chicago Bears (3-8) gave the league a scare last week and hope to keep it up against the Minnesota Vikings (6-5) to close out Week 12 with a Monday night NFC North game at U.S. Bank Stadium.

During Justin Fields' return from a thumb injury, the Bears threatened to beat the mighty Detroit Lions by intercepting Jared Goff three times. Chicago was leading most of the fourth quarter until the Lions rallied for a late touchdown. They finished off the Bears when Aidan Hutchinson forced a strip sack for a safety.

The Vikings are coming into this game after snapping their league-high, five-game win streak with a loss to the Denver Broncos. After entrancing the league with back-to-back wins upon his arrival via trade, quarterback Joshua Dobbs went 20-of-32 for 221 passing yards, a passing touchdown, an interception and a rushing score. He also fumbled the ball three times, losing it once.

This game could mark a big return for the Vikings if Justin Jefferson plays for the first time after suffering a hamstring injury in Week 5.

Minnesota won their Week 6 outing at Soldier Field 19-13. Fields dislocated his thumb during that game and Tyson Bagent came on in relief. The Bears quarterbacks combined for a lowly 113 passing yards and each threw an interception. Vikings linebacker Danielle Hunter had 2 sacks and is second in the league with 12 quarterback tackles on the season.

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Vikings vs. Bears odds, moneyline, over/under

The Vikings are favorites to defeat the Bears, according to BetMGM NFL odds. Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering NFL betting promos in 2023, including the new ESPN BET app.

Spread: Vikings (-3)
Moneyline: Vikings (-160); Bears (+135)
Over/under: 43

Not interested in this game? Our guide to NFL betting odds, picks and spreads has you covered with Thursday Night Football odds, Sunday Night Football odds and/or Monday Night Football odds.

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NFL Week 12 odds, predictions and picks

Lorenzo Reyes: Vikings 21, Bears 19

Chicago is far better with Justin Fields under center and his rushing ability is what makes the Bear offense that much more difficult to defend. Minnesota actually does well against the rush, ranking seventh in the NFL. The Vikings have been a nice story with Joshua Dobbs, and if they can get Justin Jefferson to return with the extra day with the game being Monday, that could be the difference. That line might be a bit too high, though.

Tyler Dragon: Vikings 21, Bears 20

Josh Dobbs has been a remarkable story. He’s salvaged Minnesota’s season. The Vikings still have playoff hopes. The Bears are just playing for pride at this point, and Justin Fields is auditioning to keep his job beyond this season.

Safid Deen: Vikings 23, Bears 20

Joshua Dobbs and the Vikings took a tough loss last week in Denver, but Justin Jefferson could be back. Justin Fields and the Bears played well last week against Detroit, but the Vikings’ blitz package will be ready for him.

Victoria Hernandez: Vikings 24, Bears 19

Just because the Vikings lost last week doesn't mean the Joshua Dobbs magic is over. The quarterback's ability to soak up the game is unmatched and his story is an inspiration. The Bears had some shining moments with Justin Fields' return against a tough Lions team last week. But Minnesota is the better team all-around.

Jordan Mendoza: Vikings 27, Bears 23

Chicago let a win slip out of its hands, but it's clear how much better the offense is with Justin Fields. Minnesota fell just short in Denver, but they are still playing good football and are in the playoffs at this moment. Joshua Dobbs has another solid home performance for another “Monday Night Football” win.

You can view the full list of Paste BN's NFL expert predictions here.

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