The NFL makes history on Sunday as the Minnesota Vikings and Pittsburgh Steelers clash at Dublin's iconic Croke Park in the league's first-ever regular season game in Ireland. This Week 4 battle carries extra significance beyond the international spotlight, as both teams look to gain momentum in what projects to be a tightly contested affair.
The Vikings bring their explosive offensive attack to the Emerald Isle, averaging 26.3 points per game behind elite playmaker Justin Jefferson and company. Meanwhile, the Steelers counter with disciplined execution and red-zone mastery, converting a staggering 87.5% of their scoring opportunities inside the 20-yard line.
With defensive game-wreckers like T.J. Watt ready to disrupt Minnesota's rhythm, this international showcase promises compelling storylines both on and off the field. We'll break down the key matchups, betting odds, and injury concerns that could determine the outcome of this historic Dublin showdown.
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Vikings vs Steelers Betting Odds
This unprecedented international showcase kicks off from Dublin's legendary Croke Park, creating a unique atmosphere for this Week 4 non-conference battle. Fans will need to set their alarms early for some morning football across the pond.
- Date: Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 9:30 a.m. ET (2:30 p.m. local time)
- Venue: Croke Park – Dublin, Ireland
- Weather: Forecast not yet available for this outdoor stadium
Here are the latest betting lines for the matchup:
- Moneyline: Vikings (-143) | Steelers (+120)
- Spread: Vikings -2.5 (-110) | Steelers +2.5 (-110)
- Total (Over/Under): O/U 41 (-110/-110)
Betting odds courtesy of BetMGM.
The Vikings travel across the Atlantic as short road favorites at (-143) on the moneyline. The spread sits at a crucial 2.5 points, suggesting oddsmakers expect a close contest that could be decided by a field goal.
Pittsburgh enters as slight underdogs at (+120), while the game total of 41 points has dropped from its opening line of 42.5, indicating the market anticipates a more defensive struggle than a high-scoring shootout.
Vikings vs Steelers Statistical Breakdown: Efficiency Meets Explosiveness
These two NFL teams present a fascinating statistical contrast that should make for compelling football. Minnesota's high-octane offense brings superior firepower, averaging 26.3 points and 268.0 yards per game compared to Pittsburgh's 23.3 points and 247.0 yards per game. However, the raw numbers don't tell the complete story.
The most critical mismatch lies in situational execution. Pittsburgh's offense has been ruthlessly efficient in the red zone, converting an eye-popping 87.5% of their scoring opportunities inside the 20-yard line. The Vikings, while solid, convert at a more modest 66.7% clip. Neither team has been particularly efficient on third downs, where the Steelers convert 38.2% of their attempts compared to Minnesota's 31.4% rate.
Both defenses generate consistent pressure with similar sack totals (Vikings 9.0, Steelers 8.0) and have been equally opportunistic, forcing seven takeaways each. However, ball security emerges as a major storyline. The Vikings enter with a -2 turnover differential, while Pittsburgh struggles even more at -4.
The team that protects the football better will gain a decisive advantage in what projects as a low-scoring affair. Minnesota comes in riding a narrow 27-24 victory, while Pittsburgh looks to bounce back from a disappointing 31-17 loss.
Vikings vs Steelers Fearless Forecast: Backing the Situational Masters
Lock of the Week: Steelers +2.5 (-110)
We're backing Pittsburgh to cover in what should be a gritty, possession-by-possession battle. While Minnesota moves the ball effectively between the 20s, the Steelers win where it matters most.
Pittsburgh's staggering 87.5% red-zone conversion rate gives them the perfect recipe to hang with a more talented Vikings squad. In a game with a modest 41-point total, we'll take the points with the team that executes better in crucial situations.
Prop Play: Under 41 Total Points (-110)
Both teams have shown they can move the ball, but struggle with consistency. The Steelers' defensive front, anchored Watt, figures to disrupt Minnesota's timing, while Pittsburgh's methodical offensive approach should keep the clock moving.
With both teams dealing with turnover issues and the unique atmosphere of an international game potentially affecting rhythm, this total feels inflated. We're expecting a defensive slugfest that stays well under the number.
Vikings vs Steelers Injury Report: Key Defensive Stars Questionable
Both teams are managing extensive injury lists following their long journey to Dublin, with several impact players dealing with concerning ailments that could shape Sunday's outcome.
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Minnesota Vikings Key Injuries
The Vikings' primary concerns center around their offensive execution and defensive depth:
- J.J. McCarthy (QB): Did Not Participate In Practice (Ankle)
- Ben Yurosek (TE): Did Not Participate In Practice (Knee)
- Javon Hargrave (DL): Limited Participation In Practice (Chest)
Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy's ankle injury represents the most significant storyline after he missed last week's game and will miss this Week 4 matchup as well. Carson Wentz will once again fill in, aiming to keep up Minnesota's offensive rhythm in this international showcase.
Pittsburgh Steelers Key Injuries
Pittsburgh's injury concerns focus heavily on their defensive playmakers:
- Alex Highsmith (LB): Did Not Participate In Practice (Ankle)
- Joey Porter Jr. (CB): Limited Participation In Practice (Hamstring)
Linebacker Alex Highsmith will miss this international matchup with an ankle injury, placing even more responsibility on Watt to generate pass rush single-handedly. Cornerback Joey Porter Jr is questionable for the contest with a hamstring, which is an issue that also bears watching, especially with Jefferson and Minnesota's talented receiving corps coming to town.
Several other key veterans, including Watt and Cameron Heyward, sat out practice for rest purposes rather than injury concerns.