Simulation Picks
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Expert Picks
This is a pretty small line considering the Giants are 2-12 and Arizona actually has a quality defense. Prior to losing last week, the Cardinals went 2-1 in three straight games at home against playoff contenders, and their defense has allowed more than 220 yards just once in the last four weeks. The Giants offense looked great against the Eagles, but it's just one game, and we have plenty of earlier evidence that they're not a good unit (25th in net yards per pass attempt, 27th in yard per rush, 31st in points per drive). Drew Stanton isn't great, but he's a better downfield passer than Blaine Gabbert.
One conclusion from the spread and the built-in three points for home field advantage is that the public considers these teams even. C’mon, people. The Giants’ offensive efficiency last Sunday after several weeks in quicksand does not mean it has found a cure. Even if it’s better now that QB Eli Manning’s new streak of starts is at one, Arizona stands as the league’s toughest defense since Week 10. It is penurious against the run, and New York’s rush offense ranks 28th. Top-flight CB Patrick Peterson will shut down whoever he marks. DE Chandler Jones, with 15 sacks, figures to add to his league total. ‘Zona has multiple injuries concerns and lately has scored in threes rather than sevens, but the early line of seven for this game a week ago better reflects the differences in these teams, especially when playing in the desert.
The Giants have found some life -- though still come short on actually winning games -- since replacing their coach and giving Eli Manning the starting QB gig back. Arizona is banged up and out of the playoff mix, putting the Cardinals' motivation a question. New York wins 48 percent of my simulations, and covers in 60 percent, making each pick a value.
The Giants last week showed something they hadn’t shown in quite some time: offensive creativity. They were able to mix in the short, quick passing game with the power run game. That helped calm the pressure of the Eagles. Facing a similar attacking-style defense this week at Arizona, it’ll help calm the Cards' pressure as well. Grab the points.