Minnesota Vikings vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Week 2 Predictions, Picks and Odds 9/14/23

The Philadelphia Eagles did not play championship-level football in their opener, squeaking past the New England Patriots to start the season 1-0.

With the Cowboys and 49ers both looking good, Philly must turn it up to prove it should still be labeled the team to beat in the NFC in 2023.

The Eagles have a good test in Week 2 when they take on the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday Night Football. Here is a look at the betting lines for the matchup, per BetMGM on Sept. 13:

Spread: Eagles -7
Moneyline: Eagles -350; Vikings +260
Over/Under: 49

The Vikings outplayed the Buccaneers in their opener but lost by a field goal. Minnesota had fantastic close-game luck last season, going 11-0 in one-possession games, but most pundits believe the Vikings will come back to earth this year.

They will only be able to stay close if the passing game is clicking. Justin Jefferson had nine catches for 150 yards in the opener, while Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson are two other key pieces for quarterback Kirk Cousins.

It feels like Minnesota is getting overlooked in this one, especially with a moneyline that would pay out quite nicely if the Vikings can pull off the upset.

Prop Bet Pick: Eagles RB D’Andre Swift Anytime Touchdown (+125)

Swift barely played in the season opener against the Patriots, finishing with one carry for three yards and a reception that didn’t gain anything.

However, starting running back Kenneth Gainwell is dealing with a ribs injury and may not be ready for this matchup.

If Swift is the primary back for this matchup, he is capable of scoring either on the ground or through the air. He had eight touchdowns a season ago with the Lions and had a career-high of 10 as a rookie in 2020.

Additionally, a scoring total of 49 means the oddsmakers expect plenty of offensive fireworks. This is taking a bit of a risk in case Gainwell does play, but if Swift gets most of the action in the backfield the odds are very favorable.

Minnesota Vikings vs. Philadelphia Eagles Prediction

The Eagles made a magical run to the Super Bowl a season ago and still have one of the most complete rosters in the NFL.

However, quarterback Jalen Hurts had a so-so debut and there are questions about his ability to be an elite passer. I think the Vikings will perform better than expected on defense, and if the passing attack can get going against a stout Philadelphia defense, an upset could be in the cards.

Kirk Cousins needs to have a big game and avoid costly mistakes, and I could see him doing so in this showdown. There have been several upsets already early on in the NFL calendar and I smell another one coming.

Pick: Vikings 24, Eagles 23

How To Watch Minnesota Vikings vs. Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles will host the Minnesota Vikings at 8:20 p.m. ET on Thursday, September 14th, 2023, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The game can be seen nationally on NBC.