The Detroit Lions (1-1, T-2nd NFC North) aim to recover from a recent setback as they travel to the desert to challenge the Arizona Cardinals (1-1, T-2nd NFC West). While Detroit is looking for a rebound after a loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Cardinals are eager to secure their second straight win. The Lions began their season with a close 26-20 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers but fell short against Tampa Bay, losing 20-16 in Week 2. Meanwhile, Arizona experienced a rough start with a 34-28 loss to the Buffalo Bills but bounced back impressively, defeating the Los Angeles Rams 41-10. The Lions face injury concerns, with several players, including wide receivers Tre’Quan Smith and Isaiah Williams, unavailable for the game. Arizona, on the other hand, has five players on injured reserve, including linebacker BJ Ojulari and cornerback Elijah Jones.
Offensive Adjustments Needed for Detroit Lions
The Lions are currently averaging 21.0 points per game, ranking 16th in the league, while generating an impressive 413.0 total yards per game, putting them in 2nd place. Their rushing game is noteworthy, averaging 151.0 yards (9th) per game, complemented by a passing game that yields 262.0 yards (2nd). Quarterback Jared Goff has thrown for 524 yards, with one touchdown and three interceptions, while being sacked twice. Running back David Montgomery leads the team with 126 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while wide receiver Jameson Williams has caught 10 passes for 200 yards and one touchdown, showcasing his potential as a key player.
As the season progresses, the Lions must enhance their scoring efficiency. Try our NFL Picks to avoid being sacked this football season!
The Lions’ defense has shown promise, allowing an average of 20.0 points (12th) and 301.5 yards (14th) per game. They excel against the run, permitting only 76.5 yards (4th) per game, but their pass defense is somewhat vulnerable, allowing 225.0 yards (21st). Linebacker Alex Anzalone leads the team with 17 tackles, while cornerback Carlton Davis III follows with 14. As a collective unit, the Lions have managed seven quarterback sacks and two interceptions, with Aidan Hutchinson leading the way with 5.5 sacks.
Arizona Cardinals: An Offense on the Rise
Arizona’s offense has been dynamic, averaging 34.5 points (2nd) and 379.5 yards (7th) in total offense per game. The Cardinals excel in rushing, averaging 197.5 yards (4th) while their passing game generates 202.0 yards (15th). Quarterback Kyler Murray has thrown for 428 yards and four touchdowns without any interceptions, though he has been sacked five times. Running back James Connor has emerged as a key player, leading the team with 172 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. has made a significant impact with 134 receiving yards and two touchdowns.
However, Arizona’s defense has been average, allowing 22.0 points (18th) and 298.5 yards (13th) per game. They permit 91.5 rushing yards (9th) and 207.0 passing yards (19th). Safety Budda Baker and linebacker Kyzir White each have tallied 18 tackles, leading the defensive efforts. Arizona has registered seven quarterback sacks but is still seeking their first interception of the season, with linebacker Dennis Gardeck leading in sacks with three.
Analyzing the Best Bets for Lions vs. Cardinals
As the Cardinals prepare to host the Lions, they face a formidable challenge against Detroit’s defense. Nevertheless, playing at home gives Arizona an advantage. Quarterback Kyler Murray’s performance has been impressive, with 428 passing yards and 116 rushing yards so far this season. His connection with rookie sensation Marvin Harrison Jr., who has made five receptions for 134 yards and two touchdowns, is critical as they aim to exploit the Lions’ defensive weaknesses. Arizona ranks second in the league, scoring 34.5 points per game, and their defense holds opponents to 22 points on average.
Given that the Lions excel against the run, allowing just 76.5 yards per game, Arizona may lean more on their passing attack. Notably, the Lions’ pass defense has struggled, allowing 225 yards per game (21st). This trend could favor Murray, who will aim to capitalize on these gaps. Historically, Arizona has performed well at home against Detroit, successfully covering the spread in nine of the last eleven matchups in that setting.
