NFL Picks: Week 1 Cardinals vs Commanders

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As the clock ticks closer to 1:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, September 10, 2023, NFL enthusiasts are gearing up for a heated contest between the Arizona Cardinals and the Washington Commanders. FedEx Field in North Englewood, MD, is the chosen battleground, promising an atmosphere buzzing with anticipation.

BUSR NFL Lines

Spread: Cardinals +7 (-110), Commanders -7 (-110) 

Moneyline: Cardinals +240, Commanders -310

Total: O 38 (-110), U 38 (-110) 

Cardinals’ Season Overview

The Cardinals navigated through the last season with some turbulence, finishing with a 4-13 overall record. Their divisional confrontations proved particularly challenging as they managed just one win from six outings. Compounding their woes, the home turf didn’t offer much solace either, with a disappointing 1-8 record. However, the Cardinals showed better resilience on the road, where they managed a more respectable 3-5 record, and this is where they’ll be contending in the upcoming game. 

Diving deeper into the team’s performance metrics, the offense posted an average of 20 points and 323.5 yards each game. On the defensive front, the figures weren’t quite as impressive, allowing an average of 26.4 points and 348.9 yards per matchup. Standout performers included Kyler Murray, who passed for 2368 yards, James Conner who dashed his way to 782 rushing yards, and DeAndre Hopkins, who stood out in the receiving department with 717 yards.

Commanders’ Tactical Analysis

The Commanders, in contrast, experienced a more balanced season, wrapping up with an 8-8-1 overall record. Their divisional record, standing at 2-3-1, mirrored the unpredictable nature of their play. While their home games posed a few setbacks, resulting in a 4-5 record, they managed a slightly better 4-3-1 outcome on the road, setting the stage for the next game.

From a statistical lens, their offense averaged 18.9 points, covering an impressive 330.3 yards per game. The defense was commendable too, keeping opponents to an average of 20.2 points and 304.6 yards each game. Leading the offensive charge was Taylor Heinicke, boasting 1859 passing yards. Brian Robinson Jr. made waves in the rushing department, accumulating 797 yards, and the receiving accolades went to Terry McLaurin, who clocked an outstanding 1191 yards.

Analysis

BUSR NFL Odds currently tip the scales in favor of the Commanders, listing them as a 7-point favorite for the encounter. After narrowly missing the playoffs the previous season, there’s a renewed vigor in the Commanders’ camp. With the induction of QB Sam Howell, the offensive unit promises dynamism, especially considering the talent pool in the receiving and running sectors. The Rivera-led defense has consistently showcased resilience, and with the home advantage and the support of their new ownership, they’re on the front foot. 

The Cardinals, facing roster challenges and questionable decisions, find themselves in a predicament. Their new head coach has an uphill battle ahead, particularly given the uncertainties surrounding their quarterback situation. For bettors, the Commanders covering the spread seem to be the logical wager.

Injury Report

Injury updates present mixed feelings for fans of both teams. The Cardinals’ lineup witnesses key players like Z. Ertz (TE) and K. Murray (QB) facing knee-related uncertainties, with Murray being sidelined for an extended period. Furthermore, key players like J. Gaines II (OL) and M. Mack (RB) find themselves on the injured reserve list. For the Commanders, the injury list is quite extensive. Notable mentions include K. Smith (TE) and K. McGowan (WR), both on injured reserve, and their star receiver T. McLaurin, whose status for the upcoming game remains in the balance due to a toe injury. 

Both teams have their trials to surmount, but as the action unfolds at FedEx Field, only time will tell which team emerges victorious.