Minnesota Vikings vs. Cleveland Browns 8/17/24 – The Minnesota Vikings (1-0) will meet the Cleveland Browns (0-1) this week in a very interesting pre-season game as the NFL is in its second week of preseason games. Thus, it will not only be an opportunity to evaluate the quality and potential of both sides but also provide a gateway for those who have an eye for free football betting odds and picks. The game is set for Saturday and will take place at the famous Cleveland Browns Stadium.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Cleveland Browns 8/17/24
| When: | Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 4:25 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Cleveland Browns Stadium |
| TV: | – |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vikings | +2.5 (-110) | 37.5 over (-110) | +115 |  |
| Browns | -2.5 (-110) | 37.5 under (-110) | -135 | |
| ||||
.@JJettas2 led the way in the #Vikings first joint practice with the Browns.
📰: https://t.co/wOcpMzrA7k pic.twitter.com/o8z0HnOn9D
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) August 15, 2024
The betting lines for this preseason matchup have the Browns favored slightly at home, which is indicative of their perceived slight edge over the Vikings in this early phase. The total points line is set at 37.5, with past trends suggesting a potential for a high-scoring game, especially considering both teams’ recent performances.
J.J. McCarthy QB vs. Dorian Thompson-Robinson QB
In his first preseason game, J.J. McCarthy of the Vikings showed lots of potential by going 11 of 17 for 188 yards and may be a standout this season. He had an impressive 64.7% completion rate and a passer rating of 116.8, boosted by two touchdowns. The longest throw he made was for a distance of forty-five yards, showing McCarthy’s aggressive play style and downfield throwing ability, which will be crucial against the Browns’ weak pass defense.
In contrast, Dorian Thompson-Robinson had good management skills while making his debut for the Browns with a completion rate of 77.8%, having thrown for 134 yards on just eighteen tries. His passing is more tactical since he recorded an average per attempt of only 7.4, and that was good enough to result in high success rates with short to intermediate passes being targeted during this period. How well he handles himself throughout the game will be key in dealing with what kind of schemes are put up by the Vikings on defense.
The matchup between quarterbacks will surely be one to watch out for as it unfolds in today’s clash between Minnesota and Cleveland, contrasting McCarthy’s reckless deep balls with Thompson-Robinson’s precision control over field position. Whichever team can better adjust to these defensive pressures and exploit mismatches could very well determine how fast or slow this game goes along with its final outcome.
Dynamic Ground and Air Attack: Vikings’ Perspective
The Vikings’ offensive prowess was not limited to the air in their previous game. Kene Nwangwu, their primary running back, notched 52 rushing yards on just 5 carries, demonstrating explosive potential with a long run of 48 yards. This kind of breakthrough ability will be vital against a Browns defense that has shown some susceptibility to the run. Additionally, receiver Trishton Jackson’s capability to stretch the field, capturing 100 receiving yards on 4 receptions, will test the Browns’ secondary significantly, potentially opening up more lanes for the rushing attack.
Cleveland’s Counter: Ground and Receiving Analysis
Conversely, the Browns showed a more subdued rushing performance, with John Kelly Jr. managing only 15 yards across 4 carries. The lack of a ground game could put added pressure on Thompson-Robinson and the receiving corps, necessitating a step-up from receivers like Jamari Thrash, who led the team with 43 receiving yards. Enhancing the rushing attack will be crucial for balancing their offensive game plan and keeping the Vikings’ defense guessing.
Trends
Minnesota Vikings Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Minnesota’s last 5 games.
Minnesota are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games.
Vikings are 8-3 SU in their last 11 games against Cleveland.
Minnesota are 2-5 SU in their last 7 games against an opponent in the American Football Conference.
Cleveland Browns Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cleveland’s last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Cleveland’s last 7 games against Minnesota.
Cleveland are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games at home.
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Cleveland’s last 12 games against an opponent in the National Football Conference.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Cleveland Browns Betting Prediction
The Vikings have a slight edge here because of their offensive arsenal and reputation for high-scoring games, especially with the points. There will be an attacking game plan that capitalizes on Cleveland’s defensive loopholes. However, the Browns should show some marked improvements both in their running game and in tightening their defense to be contenders.
It is recommended that you consider the Vikings with the total possibly going OVER due to recent scoring trends by both teams. If you are looking for prop bets, consider examining quarterback and receiver performance stats since McCarthy is expected to keep throwing aggressively. Before you make any wagers, do not forget to check out the latest updates as well as extensive analysis in top-tier online sportsbooks.
Score Prediction: Vikings 24, Browns 21.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: August 14, 2024
Last updated: March 27, 2025