Arizona Cardinals vs. Carolina Panthers
Date/Time: Dec 22, 2024, 10:00 AM
Broadcast: FOX
Spread: Cardinals -5
Team Overview
Arizona Cardinals (7-7-0, 3rd NFC West)
The Cardinals come into this matchup at .500 and fighting to stay in the playoff hunt. Their offense ranks 12th in total yards per game (362.5), driven by a strong ground game that averages 141.5 rushing yards per game (7th). However, their passing attack has been inconsistent, ranking 21st with 209.9 yards per game.
Defensively, Arizona has been solid overall, ranking 16th in total yards allowed (354.1) and 10th in points allowed (21.9). Their weakness lies in third-down defense, where they rank 30th, allowing opponents to convert 44.6% of their opportunities.
Carolina Panthers (3-11-0, 4th NFC South)
The Panthers are playing out the remainder of a tough season and rank dead last in total offense, averaging just 301.5 yards per game. Their passing attack is one of the worst in the league (186.0 yards per game, 29th), and their rushing game hasn’t fared much better, sitting at 102.9 yards per game (24th).
Defensively, Carolina has struggled mightily, allowing 399.4 yards per game (31st) and a league-worst 29.9 points per game. Their rushing defense has been particularly poor, giving up 173.0 yards per game (32nd). Opponents have had success sustaining drives against them, converting 47.8% of third-down attempts (32nd).
Key Matchups
- Arizona’s Rushing Attack vs. Carolina’s Run Defense
Arizona’s 7th-ranked rushing offense should dominate against Carolina’s last-ranked rushing defense. The Cardinals have a significant edge here and could control the game’s tempo with a strong ground game. - Carolina’s Offense vs. Arizona’s Defense
Carolina’s lack of offensive firepower, especially in the passing game, makes it difficult for them to exploit Arizona’s 17th-ranked pass defense. Their inability to sustain drives will likely put additional pressure on their struggling defense. - Third-Down Efficiency
Arizona’s 9th-ranked third-down offense (42.9%) should take advantage of Carolina’s last-ranked third-down defense (47.8%), giving the Cardinals the edge in key moments.
Prediction
The Cardinals are clearly the better team on both sides of the ball, and their strengths align perfectly to exploit Carolina’s glaring weaknesses. Arizona’s rushing attack, led by a strong offensive line and consistent backfield, should dominate the game, keeping Carolina’s defense on the field and controlling the clock.
The Panthers may find some success in the passing game against Arizona’s average secondary, but their inability to stop the run or sustain drives will likely result in another frustrating loss. With the Cardinals still in the playoff hunt and Carolina playing with little to lose, Arizona should cover the 5-point spread comfortably.
Final Score Prediction: Cardinals 27, Panthers 17
Betting Recommendation: Take the Cardinals -5
