The Vikes have not topped 20 points in the past four games and were limited to 16 or fewer in three of them. They rode defense to a 5-0 start, but the formula isn’t working so well anymore. Arizona wields loads of firepower on offense, so the Cardinals should not get stuck on a low number as many of Minnesota’s opponents have. About the Cards’ skin-of-their-teeth win over the 49ers on Sunday? No biggie. Letdowns happen, and ‘Zona was prone to one at home against lowly San Fran.

Neither of these teams have looked good as of late, but the Cardinals have gotten the benefit of playing a lot of home games so far this season, while the Vikings' recent skid came mostly on the road. Arizona certainly has the best offensive weapon in this game, but I expect a better showing from the Vikings' excellent defense at home, where they haven't given up more than 16 points in regulation in any game this season. Carson Palmer hasn't looked right all year, and without a great performance from him, I can't see the Cardinals winning in this spot.