Two dumpster fires converge in the Mile High City this Sunday as the Arizona Cardinals (4-9) head to Denver to take on the Broncos (3-10). The Cardinals got manhandled by the New England Patriots last week on Monday night, 27-13, while Denver actually had a showing from their offense, but they could not take down the Kansas City Chiefs, falling, 34-28, as the Chiefs won their 15th straight road game in divisional play. Arizona lost Kyler Murray for the season on the game’s third play to a torn ACL, and backup Colt McCoy had a neck injury, but McCoy is clear to start. The Broncos still have Russell Wilson at quarterback, and can he keep the offensive flow going from a week go? Don’t miss our NFL betting prediction.
NFL Preview: Arizona Cardinals at Denver Broncos (Sunday, December 18)
When: Sunday, December 18, 2022, 4:05 pm ET
Where: Mile High Stadium, Denver
TV: CBS
Radio: KTAR 98.7 FM Phoenix / KOA 850 AM Denver
Live Stream: Sling TV
NFL Odds: Arizona +1.5 / O/U 36.5 // Arizona +105 / Denver -125
Why should you bet on the Cardinals?
Colt McCoy has always played gamely as a backup, and last week was no exception. He went 27 of 40 for 246 yards with an interception in relief of Murray, but he also took an absolute beating from the New England pass rush. Wide receiver Rondale Moore has gone on injured reserve with a groin injury, so it’s basically just Hollywood Brown running routes for McCoy. The Broncos also have a solid pass rush, so expect another week of harassment and hurries for the Cardinals’ quarterback.
The Cards have lost three in a row and five of six, although they have covered twice in their last five. Tailback James Conner has picked up his game recently, averaging 79 yards per game in the last four contests. However, with a backup quarterback, expect the Broncos to load the box and dare McCoy to beat them down the field. The defense has not done well given the short possessions the offense has mustered, permitting a league-worst 26.8 points per game. If you like Arizona, you see the Broncos reverting to their old selves on offense.
Why should you put your money on the Broncos?
Denver has lost five straight since their bye week, which means they have not won since October. Over that stretch, they have been outscored by 33 points. They have covered in their last two games, as they were heavy underdogs each time. This is thanks to that Bronco D, which is fourth in fewest points permitted (18.3) and seventh in fewest yards permitted (314.3).
The problems come on offense, as the Broncos are dead last in the league with 14.9 points per game. Their leading running back is Latavius Murray, with 380 rushing yards and three touchdowns, but injuries have affected the Broncos’ tailback room. The last time Murray scored a touchdown was Week 11. Russell Wilson should return but did have to leave the Chiefs game with a concussion. Top wide receiver Courtland Sutton had to miss last week’s game with a hamstring injury and remains questionable for this weekend. If you like the Broncos, you see Wilson bringing the same energy he had a week ago – and the defense doing a little better than they did against Kansas City.
Final Score and Prediction
Colt McCoy vs Russell Wilson? It’s an intriguing matchup, to be honest. Both are showing signs of wear, and both are warriors who often persist through sheer will. The Broncos have the better defense, so I see them edging out a 20-16 win.
NFL Betting Odds
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