The Panthers have scored only 27 combined points in two games behind rookie QB Bryce young, who is expected to return from injury after a one-game absence. He has struggled to get the ball out amid meager protection, and the run game hasn't been effective. The desperate Vikings should have some success on offense, but a relatively stout Carolina defense won't make it easy. Look for this one to clip the Under.

With Andy Dalton at the helm, Thielen caught 11 passes for 145 yards and a touchdown against the Seahawks last week. Bryce Young will be back for this game, which might actually be a detriment for Thielen. However, the Vikings have allowed the seventh-most passing yards per game in the league. The Panthers might also need to throw a lot to keep up with the Vikings’ high-powered offense. That should afford Thielen with enough opportunities to reach this over.

The Panthers are decimated in their secondary and what's left surely will be focused on the amazing Justin Jefferson. This season, Hockenson has eight targets in every game and has finished with no fewer than seven receptions. Half unit with juiced price. This may go back to 5.5.

Adam Thielen looks revitalized in Carolina's offense and thus far has done a serviceable job essentially functioning as their WR1. I'm choosing to attack this from a volume based approach because Thielen has racked up 23 targets in his last two games. He's also ran more routes out of the slot than any WR in the NFL through 3 weeks which is a welcome sign as well. His former team is a massive pass funnel and has surrendered the third most yards to opposing WRs this season. I like all of Thielen's props this week but I have the most confidence in his receptions.

Two desperate winless teams -- one potent offensively, one not so much. Vikings QB Kirk Cousins has excelled and the beleaguered ground game perked up last Sunday. Cousins can rip up a Carolina secondary minus two starters. Rookie QB Bryce Young returns from a one-game hiatus, which might not be a plus. Backup Andy Dalton was more effective last weekend than Young in his first two outings. It's hard to envision the Vikings at 0-4; the question is, will the margin climb above a field goal? Probably yes.

There are reasons to think the Vikings aren't as bad as their record, which could be 2-1 if not for better ball security and clock management. But the market has treated them all along as average to below average, and this line says otherwise. I have the Panthers just a half-point out of the basement in my power ratings, and if I thought the Vikings were average, I'd make the line Minnesota -3. Minnesota still has to prove it's better than average, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, and even with Carolina's injuries I think they can score enough to cover with Bryce Young at QB.

Will update analysis shortly.