Arizona Cardinals (3-12) vs. Philadelphia Eagles (11-4)
Arizona Cardinals vs. Philadelphia Eagles December 31, 2023 – As the NFL regular season nears its climax, Week 17 presents a high-stakes matchup between the struggling Arizona Cardinals and the formidable Philadelphia Eagles. Set for Sunday, at Lincoln Financial Field, this game draws significant attention from NFL free picks enthusiasts. The Cardinals, with a dismal 3-12 record, face an uphill battle against the Eagles, who stand tall with an impressive 11-4 record, signaling a potential mismatch on the field.
Arizona Cardinals vs. Philadelphia Eagles December 31, 2023 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 31, 2023, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Joshua Dobbs QB vs. Jalen Hurts QB
Joshua Dobbs has mightily struggled in his first extended action as an NFL starting quarterback. Over 8 starts, he has completed just 62.8 percent of his passes while averaging a meager 5.9 yards per attempt. Dobbs has only thrown 8 touchdowns compared to 5 interceptions. His longest completion is just 69 yards, illustrating his lack of big play ability. Dobbs’ 81.2 quarterback rating ranks 30th out of 32 qualified passers this season. Simply put, he has failed to move the chains or put points on the board. Dobbs lacks the accuracy, arm strength and decision making required to succeed in today’s pass-happy league. The Cardinals offense has sputtered with him under center.
In contrast, Jalen Hurts continues putting up MVP-worthy numbers for the NFC East champion Eagles. He is averaging a robust 7.2 yards per pass attempt with 19 touchdowns compared to 12 interceptions. Hurts has also used his mobility to punish opponents, racking up 896 yards and 4 rushing scores. He ranks top five in both passer rating and QBR. Hurts exploits defenses with his dual-threat abilities and has Philadelphia positioned for a deep playoff run. He could be poised to pick apart a hapless Cardinals defense that is allowing the 4th-most passing yards per game this season.
Cardinals’ Ground and Air Assault
The lone bright spot on offense has been running back James Conner. In 11 games, Conner has rushed for 762 yards and 5 touchdowns while averaging a solid 4.9 yards per carry. If Arizona wants to keep this game close, they’ll need to establish the run early. In the passing game, wide receiver Marquise Brown has been Dobbs’ favorite target. Brown has reeled in 51 catches for 574 yards and 4 touchdowns. Look for lots of targets to go Brown’s way against an exploitable Eagles secondary.
Eagles’ Offensive Prowess
Much like Arizona, Philadelphia boasts a strong one-two punch in the backfield with Jalen Hurts and running back D’Andre Swift. Swift has racked up 896 yards on the ground while scoring 4 times. The duo should gash a Cardinals defense allowing the 5th-most rushing yards per game. Star wideout A.J. Brown headlines the receiving corps. Brown has been simply unstoppable, with 95 receptions, 1314 yards and 7 touchdowns. He and Hurts have developed lethal chemistry. Also look out for emerging tight end Dallas Goedert against Arizona’s weak linebacking core.
NFL Betting Odds: Philadelphia Eagles -165, Over/Under: 39
The betting odds lean heavily towards the Eagles, with their Moneyline set at -165. The over/under for the game is pegged at 39, reflecting expectations of a moderately high-scoring affair. Given the Eagles’ solid record and the Cardinals’ struggles, the odds seem to favor the home team.
Arizona Cardinals Betting Trends
Arizona are 4-8 ATS in their last 12 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Arizona’s last 6 games.
Arizona are 3-17 SU in their last 20 games.
Cardinals are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games against Philadelphia.
Arizona are 6-3 SU in their last 9 games against Philadelphia.
Arizona are 1-10 SU in their last 11 games on the road.
Philadelphia Eagles Betting Trends
Philadelphia are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games.
Eagles are 14-5 SU in their last 19 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Philadelphia’s last 8 games against Arizona.
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Philadelphia’s last 8 games at home.
Philadelphia are 11-5 SU in their last 16 games when playing at home against Arizona.
Philadelphia are 10-3 SU in their last 13 games against an opponent in the National Football Conference conference.
Arizona Cardinals vs. Philadelphia Eagles Betting Picks
Considering the data, the Eagles emerge as the clear favorites. Their balanced offense and solid defensive play give them an edge over the Cardinals, who have struggled to find consistency this season. However, the Cardinals’ past performance against the Eagles and the unpredictable nature of the NFL suggest that they could cover the spread.
For bettors, the Eagles might be the safer pick for a straight win, but the Cardinals could be a risky yet potentially rewarding choice to cover the spread. In terms of the over/under, the combined offensive capabilities of both teams, especially the Eagles, could push the total score over 39.
Legal Betting Sites offer a variety of options for this matchup, including prop bets and live betting. The Eagles, with their superior record and home-field advantage, are likely to secure a win, but the Cardinals’ resilience, especially in recent matchups against Philadelphia, could make the game closer than the odds suggest.
Receiving Yards Prop: Eagles 27, Cardinals 17.
