Arizona Cardinals (0-2) vs. Denver Broncos (2-0)
Week 3 of the 2024 NFL preseason wraps up on Sunday, August 25, featuring an exciting matchup between the Arizona Cardinals and the Denver Broncos from Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado. This interconference clash is generating buzz among fans and bettors alike as they look for the best Cardinals vs. Broncos picks and odds.
This is a rematch from last year’s preseason, where the Cardinals narrowly defeated the Broncos 18-17 as a 6-point home underdog. This time, the Broncos are favored by 3.5 points, with a total set at 35.5 points for the game.
Need help with your betting strategy? Check out our NFL Predictions!
Cardinals’ Backups Face Tough Challenges
So far in the 2024 preseason, the Arizona Cardinals have struggled, losing both of their initial games. Following a close 16-14 defeat at home to the New Orleans Saints, they fell to the Indianapolis Colts 21-13 last Saturday.
In their first game, Clayton Tune showcased his skills, throwing for 163 yards and a touchdown. Despite outgaining the Saints 328-286 in total yards and averaging 4.7 yards per carry, the Cardinals could not maintain their 14-13 lead as New Orleans secured a last-minute victory with a field goal.
Tune continued to impress in Week 2, completing 8-of-10 passes for 79 yards, solidifying his position as a potential backup for Kyler Murray, who will not participate in the preseason due to a knee injury. Head coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed Murray’s absence for this period.
Discipline has been a concern, with the Cardinals committing 11 penalties for 82 yards against the Colts. Their defense also allowed 166 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Tune managed to score a touchdown himself on a 12-yard run, while veteran kicker Matt Prater successfully converted both of his field goal attempts.
Maximize your betting experience with our sportsbook promo codes.
Broncos Thrill Fans with Strong Performance
The Denver Broncos have started the preseason with a perfect record, going 2-0 both straight up and against the spread. They first defeated the Indianapolis Colts 34-30 as 1.5-point road underdogs and then dominated the Green Bay Packers 27-2 as 6.5-point home favorites in Week 2.
In their opener, the Broncos outgained the Colts 410-283 in total yards, demonstrating a potent rushing attack with three rushing touchdowns. Quarterback Bo Nix completed 15 of 21 passes for 125 yards and a touchdown, while Zach Wilson also performed well, completing 10 of 13 passes for 117 yards.
Nix continued to shine in Week 2, throwing 8-of-9 for 80 yards and a touchdown while adding 12 rushing yards on three carries. Tim Patrick also made an impact, catching four passes for 30 yards and a touchdown. The Broncos’ defense was impressive, limiting the Packers to just 168 total yards and winning the turnover battle 2-1.
Head coach Sean Payton praised Nix’s performance, stating, “Well listen, he’s played well. I’m not announcing any starting quarterback tonight,” after Nix led the Broncos to scores on both of his drives against Green Bay.
Key Betting Insights for Arizona Cardinals vs. Denver Broncos
In this matchup, the Broncos are seen as the likely favorites. Their home-field advantage at high altitude presents a challenge for visiting teams, and they have shown consistent offensive production in their first two preseason games. Meanwhile, the Cardinals have struggled with discipline and depth, which could impact their performance.
As Bo Nix aims to secure his position in the starting lineup, the Broncos are expected to perform well, making them a solid pick to win and cover the spread.
