This is a ton of points to lay in a divisional game, and my power ratings say the number should be much lower, but I'm still going to ride the 49ers. Their pass defense is elite, and the Cardinals' RB injuries make me unafraid of their ability to run the ball. On offense, the 49ers shouldn't have an issue moving the ball against a defense that ranks 30th in points per drive and that has given up 400-plus yards in five of their eight games. If 49ers are up big in the second half, I'm unworried about a backdoor cover by Arizona against San Francisco's elite pass defense.

The 49ers are going to pound this team. Arizona has no defense. San Francisco, on the other hand, has gotten 20 sacks from four players and has allowed a total of 23 points in its last four games. The Cardinals are hurting at running back and their QB won't have a chance. Lay the points.

The 49ers have allowed only 11 points per game this season, helping five of their seven games stay under the total. The San Francisco offense will be able to match its season scoring average (29.6) against a Cardinals defense that allows 28.9 per game. The main variable here is how the Cardinals offense will fare, and I believe it will do well. The Arizona offense is hard to stop, and it will only get better with each game. Over is the play.

Extensive travel caught up with the Cardinals last Sunday when their three-game win streak ended against the Saints, who were inspired by the return of beloved QB Drew Brees. Arizona is back home after playing three away games in four weeks — all back east. San Francisco might be unbeaten, but the double-digit line is a case of overexuberance, especially for a Thursday nighter on the road.

The San Francisco 49ers continue to show new levels of excellence. Last week’s statement win over the Carolina Panthers was all the more impressive as they handled an above-average team coming off a bye week. With Thursday's quick turnaround, I expect San Fran to try to run the ball and wear down the Cardinals. Yet, look for Arizona to match the 49ers offensively and keep this within the number. Grab Arizona.