The last time an 8-1 team was a home underdog was 1976. But that's the case here with the Vikings. Yet I say Dallas deserves to be favored.

The spot sets up well for the Cowboys and the Vikings are not nearly the dominant team that their 8-1 record may indicate.

The Vikings have a losing ATS mark, rank fourth-from-the-bottom in defensive total yards and have a banged-up vulnerable secondary. They also could be without their offensive left tackle, Christian Darrisaw. That could loom large as the Cowboys lead the NFL with 35 sacks.

The NFC North is so weak the Vikings have a chance to clinch the division before December. So there is no urgency for the Vikings here unlike the Cowboys, who are off a blown two-touchdown fourth quarter lead against the Packers.

The Vikings still are on Cloud 9 after their near-miracle 33-30 road victory against the Bills last Sunday in what had to be the most insane game of the season. Minnesota rallied from a 27-10 second-half deficit.

Dallas beat the Vikings at Minnesota last season behind backup QB Cooper Rush. Dak Prescott is back now. The Vikings could be down two of their three best cornerbacks.

The Cowboys have covered 10 of their last 13 road games going 5-1 ATS when favored in those matchups.

It may seem surprising the Cowboys are road chalk against 8-1 Minnesota, but it's completely justified and the right side.