Expect some pressure
CARDINALS PASS OFFENSE VS. PANTHERS PASS DEFENSE
Kyler Murray is hoping to start against the Panthers after sitting out his first game last week at the 49ers. If he plays, it means the ankle is strong enough for him to be able to protect himself from pressure and avoid big hits. That will be important considering Carolina’s tenacious pass rush featuring former Cardinals outside linebacker Haason Reddick (8½ sacks) and defensive end Brian Burns (5½). If it’s determined Murray needs at least another week, coach Kliff Kingsbury once again will turn to veteran backup Colt McCoy, who was 22 of 26 for 248 yards and a touchdown with no turnovers in the win over San Francisco. Whoever starts at QB, he’ll have wide receiver A.J. Green, who has been activated off the Reserve/COVID-19 list. Wide receivers DeAndre Hopkins (hamstring) and Rondale Moore (neck/concussion), however, might be game-time decisions. Starting guards Justin Pugh (calf) and Max Garcia (Achilles) may also be game-time calls. McCoy’s success last week along with healthy targets Christian Kirk, Antoine Wesley and Zach Ertz should be enough to get the job done if that’s who it comes down to.
Edge: Cardinals
CARDINALS RUN OFFENSE VS. PANTHERS RUN DEFENSE
With Chase Edmonds out due to a high-ankle sprain, the bulk of the carries will fall on James Conner and he hasn’t disappointed. Conner accounted for 131 yards from scrimmage last week and scored three touchdowns, bringing his season total to an NFL-high 11. Look to see more action out of Eno Benjamin, who scored his first NFL touchdown last week on a 21-yard run. Getting the running game going again will only help take more pressure off the passing game, particularly if McCoy is directing the offense. Carolina has a swarming band of tacklers led by safety Jeremy Chin (54 tackles).
Edge: Cardinals
PANTHERS PASS OFFENSE VS. CARDINALS PASS DEFENSE
P.J. Walker, a second-year pro out of Temple and former XFL MVP, is scheduled to make his second career NFL start. He’s taking over for Sam Darnold, out with a fractured scapula. The Panthers brought back Cam Newton on Thursday on a one-year deal, but he isn’t expected to play on short notice. Walker has great running ability, but he’s a passer first and knows the offense well. Arizona will try to rattle him and apply pressure before he can get into any type of a rhythm with wide receiver DJ Moore (53 reception, 667 yards, 3 touchdowns). If the Cardinals’ secondary can double-team Moore and limit his production, then the linebackers need to zero in on running back Christian McCaffrey when he’s the target on screen passes and shorter routes. Keep an eye on wide receiver Robby Anderson, who should be able to get some one-on-one opportunities.
Edge: Cardinals
PANTHERS RUN OFFENSE VS. CARDINALS RUN DEFENSE
Carolina is averaging 110.4 rushing yards per game and if there’s one area where the Panthers can really put the hurt on the Cardinals, it’s with McCaffrey. He missed five games (hamstring) before returning last week against the Patriots and finishing with 106 yards from scrimmage. McCaffrey has great speed and when he’s on, he usually doesn’t get brought down by the first defender. Arizona must contain, wrap him up and swarm his way when he’s got the football. The Cardinals must also be aware of running back Chuba Hubbard, who’s rushed for 394 yards on 111 carries. If Arizona keeps things manageable here, you can chalk up another win for the home team.
Edge: Cardinals
SPECIAL TEAMS
The Cardinals brought in their second long snapper of the week Friday in Beau Brinkley after placing Kyle Nelson on the practice squad injured reserve list. That’s not much time at all to find a rhythm with punter and holder Andy Lee and kicker Matt Prater. If Moore can’t go, look for Benjamin to get some opportunities in the return game. Former Cardinals kicker Zane Gonzalez has made 15 of 17 field goals, including 6 of 6 from 40-49 yards, for Carolina.
Edge: Cardinals
TIPICO SPORTSBOOK ODDS: The Cardinals are 10½point favorites. The over/under is 44.5. Money line: Cardinals -550, Panthers +400 OVERALL
Arizona’s injury report looked dicey leading up to this game, but if the team has proven anything, it’s that it can win even missing key elements. That doesn’t mean the Panthers can’t pull off an unexpected surprise. It happens all the time in the NFL. Don’t count on it happening in this particular situation, though. The Cardinals should cover and win.
Pick: Cardinals 28, Panthers 17