Ahead of the 2022 NFL season opener for the Packers and Vikings, analysts and experts give their predictions for the game. There are definitely some bold predictions out there since it is week 1. However, there are also some predictions worth noting. The football experts seem to believe the Packers-Vikings match up could give each team a chance to decide the fate of the NFC North.

Here is a look at what experts are saying about the Packers-Vikings Week 1 game.

Will the Packers or Vikings Win?

Week 1 is always the hardest game to predict because of the time period. There is only so much that someone can guess about a team. Everyone saw it last night with the Rams, who seem to have some kinks they need to work out. The line opened at +3 for the Rams and didn’t change very much as it was supposed to be a close game.

Both the Packers and the Vikings are keeping a core of players but are certainly changing some things around. Both teams also performed well during the preseason, but as everyone knows by now, the preseason means nothing. The Packers opened at -2.5 for most sports books, but has since dropped down to -1.5. Perhaps the Vikings have shown more improvements heading into the season than experts originally thought.

Currently, ESPN’s Football Power Index and NFL Pickwatch both give the Packers a 64% chance to win. They each have given the Packers the edge, and the percentage has been rising from 60% a week ago.

Richard Morin and staff from USA Today gave their predictions for the game as well. Out of eight staff members, two experts chose the vikings. Lance Pugmire predicts that the new look Vikings will over power the Packers, and also that Adams’ absence will be felt. It is very possible, but it seems like the Packers have prepared for this situation.

Boldest Expert Predictions

Gregg Rosenthal predicts the Vikes will take down the Packers 24-23 and cites two main reasons. He believes, along with most experts, that it is difficult to choose a winner here. Teams haven’t proven or shown who they are yet which makes predictions difficult.

However, Rosenthal also cited that he questions the health of David Bakhtiari and Elgton Jenkins. If they are fully, 100% healthy, it could be a tough time for the Vikings. At the same time, if they aren’t fully healthy or won’t play, the reworked defensive line could thrash the Packers.

Carmen Vitali of Fox Sports wrote about the Week 1 match up for the Packers in his NFC North Guide. Vitali pointed out the idea that this week will be a chance for each team to prove themselves. The Vikings have gone all in on redesigning the team, and they really don’t have an obvious weakness. This season could be pivotal in the growth of the young Vikings front office and core. The Packers, however, also need to prove themselves and move past the critics. The team has made multiple moves, and some are shocking, but 2022 can’t be defined by that if the team wants to be successful.

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