Will Thursday Night Football be Another Snoozefest?
Tonight’s matchup between the New Orleans Saints and Arizona Cardinals may not be a thriller for casual fans, but it's a terrific betting opportunity.
After two clunkers in a row, the NFL showcases the Saints vs, Cardinals tonight on TNF.
The past two Thursday contests produced a grand total of just 40 points and the two offenses on display tonight could make for another low-scoring game.
Indeed, a pair of disappointing teams with 2-4 records may not inspire much excitement, that is, unless you've got action on the game. The winner remains alive in the playoff conversation, while the loser becomes about as appealing as a slice of burnt toast.
Tonight's big story is the return of superstar DeAndre Hopkins for Arizona. Can one player make a difference? Will one of the game's premier WRs jump-start an offense that's been as exciting as a dead car battery? We shall see.
Spreads.ca lists Arizona as -2.5 point favourites. The O/U has dropped from 45 down to 43.5.
Kickoff in Phoenix is at 5:15 pm PT.
Prediction (powered by Pointspreads):
WR Hopkins's return could spark the Cardinals but we're more motivated by a "bet against" situation with New Orleans.
The Saints come into this matchup on a short week off a crushing loss with injuries at virtually all skill positions. Both QBs -- Jameis Winston and Andy Dalton -- are listed as questionable. The Saints’ top two wide receivers are out of action.
New Orleans has played only 2/6 road games this season, losing both against the spread. Doubters of Arizona as a favourite may correctly point out the Cards are 0-3 at home, but look at their level of competition -- losses to Kansas City (a Top-5 team), the Super Bowl champion LA Rams when they were healthier, and the undefeated 7-0 Phila. Eagles (who ARZ may have defeated had the kicker not blown a short FG in the final seconds). Here's a severe step-down in the class of competition.
Arizona with the home advantage, likely getting a boost in confidence with a new scoring threat, laying less than a FG looks like a good bet.
We'll take Arizona tonight at -2.5 points.
Intangible: Rumors are swirling about Cards' head coach Kliff Kingsbury’s and his job security. The public perception of Arizona is far worst than the Saints, who can at least point the finger at numerous offensive injuries for their shortcomings. Arizona has no excuses. A loss tonight could put Kingsbury much closer to the unemployment line.
