The times they are a changin'. Maybe Bob Dylan had that in mind thinking about the Minnesota Vikings season. In September through early October it was tough to bet against the Vikes cruising to a 5-0 start with five straight covers. An NFL North Division crown seemed certain with a possible Super Bowl dream in sight.

Since then, a lot has certainly changed. The 5-0 team that opened the season has lost 7 of their last 9 games and are coming off a humiliating blowout loss to the Indianapolis Colts at home last week. More significant than that, bettors have been discouraged, as Minnesota followed up their big start with four straight outright losses and four losses ATS.

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Now, with week 16 a traditional day shortened due to Christmas, all eyes are shifting to the Vikings (7-7 SU) next game. With their backs against the wall and chances of the postseason extremely slim, Minnesota will desperately need to beat the Packers (8-6 SU) in Green Bay this Saturday to keep their playoff hopes alive. Kickoff time is slated for 1:00 PM EST with the Packers a current -7 favorite at offshore wagering leader Bovada.

Keep an eye on that -7 line at Bovada and expect a potential increase toward game time. Most significantly, bettors are heavily influenced by the recent past and last week's 34-6 drubbing vs. the Colts will be on their minds. Also significant is that earlier four-game losing streak against the spread following their opening winning streak. Overall, the Vikings are 8-6 ATS, a season mark matched exactly by the Packers.

No doubt these divisional rivals are heading in opposite directions with just two games left to go in the regular season. The Packers have rescued their December playoff and Super Bowl drive with four straight wins at 3-1 ATS while the Vikings are 1-3 SU and 2-2 ATS. Minnesota's diminished playoff chances depend on absolute victories over Green Bay and next week over Chicago, plus a lot of help from elsewhere. Those times were certainly different when these two teams met in Week Two. Back then it was a surprise when new Vikings QB Sam Bradford prevailed 17-14 in Minnesota as a 3-point home underdog. That was despite running back Adrian Peterson rushing for only 19 yards on 12 carries before leaving the game with his almost season-long knee injury. Peterson returned to limited action last week against Indianapolis running for 22 yards (with a fumble) on six carries. Look for Peterson to be much more of a factor this Saturday.

For the Packers, it seems like Aaron Rodgers has lifted himself out of his slump and is returning to Hall of Fame form. More concern is the Green Bay defense, which has not been consistent all season long, giving up an average of 24.2 points per game.

The current NFL footballl betting odds posted on this game by Elite-rated Bovada have the Packers as a seven point favorite, but some outlets sitll have the Pack at -6.5.

Minnesota Vikings  (+7) -120
Green Bay Packers (-7) EV

Over 43 points  (-110)
Under 43 points (-110)

Totally Makes Sense

While the point spread might be a puzzling factor, perhaps the Over/Under Total might be a better wager to focus upon. Currently 43.5 at Bovada, weather of course will always play a factor in Green Bay. Keep an eye on the forecast up until game time.

The Packers seem to play better defense at Lambeau Field and the numbers support it. They are giving up only 19.6 points per game while the Vikings are scoring only 17.9 on the road. A reasonable indicator toward an UNDER play here. Also with clear weather, expect the Total to go higher, which could also be an advantage going in this direction.

One things for sure, either of these teams will likely be the best in the NFL to NOT make the playoffs this year. Bet on football at Bovada and get a free 100% bonus.

Glenn Greene covers the games from a betting angle every week exclusively at OSGA.com. For weekly betting insights, inlcuding previews and picks from Glenn, click here.