Simulation Picks
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Expert Picks
Even with the return of Kenny Golladay, my concern is that the Lions will not have enough offense to keep up with the Cardinals over four quarters. Detroit's defense has struggled to this point, which makes me think Arizona will be able to attack it on the ground and through the air considering the bevy of weapons at Kyler Murray's disposal. The Packers proved last week that the Lions are no match for a multi-faceted offense. The Cardinals should be a touchdown favorite here, so I think there's a lot of value in rolling with Arizona at home.
This is a massive total for this matchup. The Lions have scored 44 points through two weeks, ranking 22nd in the league, while the Cardinals have given up just 35 points, the second-best mark in the NFL. Yes, Kenny Golladay appears on track to make his season debut, but I don't expect him near 100% as he's been limited in practice all week. Kyler Murray shouldn't have a ton of pushback against a Lions defense that's struggled, but this also seems like the type of game where Arizona takes the air out of the ball and churns up clock and yardage with Kenyan Drake, limiting the total amount of possessions in the game.
The Lions are 0-2 after blowing leads in each of their first two games, and now they're hitting the road to take on a Cardinals team that's looked strong to start the season. The difference for Detroit this week will be the return of Kenny Golladay, as his absence has had a major impact on Matthew Stafford and an offense that loved to push the ball vertically last season. That element has been missing this year. It'll be back with Golladay, and while I don't know if the Lions get their first win, they'll get their first cover.
The Lions have lost 11 straight games. They have no pass rush, their cornerbacks are hurt, and they're facing a Cardinals offense that's clicking with Kyler Murray, Kenyan Drake and DeAndre Hopkins. Arizona plays an up-tempo offense that Detroit can't possibly keep up with.