Minnesota Vikings vs Cincinnati Bengals Picks and Predictions September 21st 2025

Minnesota Vikings vs Cincinnati Bengals September 21st 2025

The Cincinnati Bengals head to U.S. Bank Stadium to face the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3 of the 2025 NFL season. The game is set for Sunday, September 21, at 1:00 PM on CBS. Both teams enter the matchup with different momentum — the Bengals are 2-0, while the Vikings sit at 1-1 after two weeks. You can see how this game stacks up with the rest of the slate in our NFL Week 3 blog.

These teams share a history of competitive meetings, though the Vikings controlled the last matchup in 2017 with a 34-7 win. Zac Taylor’s Bengals are looking to extend their hot start, while Kevin O’Connell’s Vikings aim to claim their first home victory of the season. With the game indoors, the weather won’t factor into the outcome.

Bengals vs Vikings Key Information

• Sport: NFL
• Teams: Cincinnati Bengals vs. Minnesota Vikings
• Venue: U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, MN
• Date: Sunday, September 21, 2025
• Betting Odds: Bengals Moneyline +134, Vikings Moneyline -160, Bengals Spread +3.0 (-110), Vikings Spread -3.0 (-110), Total Over 41.5 (-110), Total Under 41.5 (-109)

The Bengals Can Win If…

The Cincinnati Bengals have momentum on their side after winning their last game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, 31-27. Ja’Marr Chase was a standout with 165 receiving yards and a touchdown. Jake Browning threw for 241 yards and two touchdowns, despite three interceptions, showing his ability to make big plays when needed.

The Bengals’ passing game is a strong point, ranking first in passing yards last season. This makes them a threat through the air, with players like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins ready to capitalize. Their ability to convert on third downs, ranking fifth last season, keeps drives alive and puts pressure on opposing defenses.

Even with injuries, the Bengals have depth in key positions. Jake Browning steps in for Joe Burrow, and Chase Brown leads the rushing attack. With a defense that can force turnovers, as shown by their fifth-place rank in opponent interceptions last season, the Bengals have the tools to secure another win.

The Vikings Can Win If…

The Minnesota Vikings are looking to bounce back after their recent loss to the Atlanta Falcons. In that game, wide receiver Justin Jefferson stood out with 81 receiving yards. Despite the defeat, the Vikings’ defense showed potential with solid performances from Theo Jackson and Ivan Pace Jr., who combined for 18 tackles.

One reason the Vikings can win is their strong team stats from last season. They ranked 6th in passing yards and 9th in total score. Their defense was also impressive, ranking 5th in opponent score and 1st in interceptions, which can be crucial against the Bengals.

Injuries are a concern, but the Vikings have depth. Quarterback Carson Wentz is projected to start and can lead the offense effectively. With key players like Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson, the Vikings have the tools to secure a victory at home.

Latest Betting Trends

• The Bengals are 2-0 this season, with both wins decided by four points or fewer.
• Minnesota is 1-1, with their offense producing only six points against Atlanta last week.
• Jake Browning posted a winning record as Burrow’s replacement in 2023, giving Cincinnati some stability.
• Carson Wentz last started in 2023 for the Rams, earning a win in his lone appearance.
• The under has hit in three of Minnesota’s last four games, while Cincinnati has gone over in both of its 2025 contests.

For more insights, bettors can review the NFL expert betting guide and track game results for trends.

The Lean

The Bengals are 3.0-point underdogs against the Vikings. My model projects the Bengals to win with a score of 24-21. Given the Bengals’ strong recent performance, especially on the road, taking the Bengals +3.0 is a solid choice. They have a 75% ATS record in their last four away games.

The total for the game is set at 41.5. My model projects a total score of 45. The Bengals have gone over in their last three games as underdogs. Considering both teams’ offensive capabilities, the over 41.5 looks like a good pick.

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Wentz Steps in for Minnesota

Carson Wentz will make his debut for the Minnesota Vikings after J.J. McCarthy was sidelined with a high ankle sprain. For Wentz, this is a full-circle moment, as the North Dakota native grew up rooting for the Vikings and now gets to lead the team he once watched from the stands.

Minnesota opened the season with a road win against the Chicago Bears but stumbled in Week 2 against the Atlanta Falcons. With McCarthy injured and running back Aaron Jones also sidelined, the Vikings will turn to Wentz and backup running back Jordan Mason. He will rely heavily on All-Pro receiver Justin Jefferson, who already has 125 yards and a touchdown.

Minnesota’s offensive line depth is also a concern, as Ryan Kelly and Justin Skule are in concussion protocol. That could put extra pressure on Wentz to adapt quickly in his new role. For bettors tracking NFL previews Minnesota’s offensive health will be a major storyline.

Bengals Lean on Browning Again

The Cincinnati Bengals lost star quarterback Joe Burrow to turf toe, which is expected to keep him sidelined for months. That pushes Jake Browning back into the starting role, a position he became familiar with in 2023 when he went 4-3 as a fill-in.

The Bengals are 2-0 after tight wins against the Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars. Wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has been a reliable target, with 191 receiving yards and a touchdown through two games. Running back Chase Brown has also emerged with 90 rushing yards and a score.

Defensively, Cincinnati could also be without rookie pass rusher Shemar Stewart, who injured his ankle in Week 2. Still, with Browning more confident and comfortable, the Bengals enter this matchup as the steadier side for those following NFL odds

Betting Outlook

With both teams turning to backup quarterbacks, this matchup offers uncertainty but also betting value. Cincinnati’s continuity and early-season momentum give them an edge, while Minnesota’s injuries could make them difficult to back unless Wentz quickly clicks with Jefferson.

Those looking to wager should explore the latest NFL picks and consider the depth of each roster. Bettors can also check the buy picks marketplace and monitor the best handicappers leaderboard for expert insights.