Let’s get ready for a showdown that has all the excitement of a coin toss at the beginning of a football game. The Arizona Cardinals (4-13) are squaring off against the Washington Commanders (8-8-1) in a clash that’s got all the makings of a classic… or not.
Betting Line: Commanders by 7, because, well, they have to pick someone, right?
Series Record: Washington leads 76-47-2, but hey, who’s counting? Oh, right, everyone.
Last Meeting: Cardinals beat Washington 30-15 on September 20, 2020, in Glendale, Arizona. But let’s not dwell on the past; it’s about what happens next!
Let’s talk stats, shall we? Because that’s where the excitement is. The Cardinals’ offense is ranked 22nd overall. That’s right, not the top 10, not the top 20, but 22nd! But hey, they’re 12th in rushing, so maybe they can sprint their way to victory. Their defense is 21st, which is, well, not great.
On the other side of the field, the Commanders are sporting an offense ranked 20th. That’s right, even closer to mediocrity. They’re 11th in rushing, so they’ve got some legs, but 21st in passing. Scoring? 24th. But here’s the kicker: their defense is ranked 3rd overall, and that’s like finding a diamond in the rough.
Now, for the player to watch. The Cardinals have DL Zaven Collins, who’s moved to a pass-rushing role. With two sacks last season, he’s practically a one-man wrecking crew. On the Commanders’ side, there’s QB Sam Howell, making just his second NFL start. If he can run the offense well, they might just roll Sunday. But then again, it’s only his second start, so who knows?
The key matchup? Cardinals’ mystery QB (because who needs to know who’s playing quarterback, right?) against the Commanders’ defense. Arizona coach Jonathan Gannon is playing coy about the quarterback situation, as if knowing who’s going to throw the ball is a competitive advantage. Classic mind games. Washington’s defense, led by the formidable Daron Payne, Jonathan Allen, and Montez Sweat, could have a field day regardless of who’s under center.
Now, let’s talk injuries because what’s football without a few banged-up players? Cardinals QB Kyler Murray won’t be gracing us with his presence for at least the first four games. He’s still recovering from tearing his ACL, but hey, who needs a star quarterback, right? TE Zach Ertz is also recovering from a torn ACL but might just play. On the Commanders’ side, WR Terry McLaurin has a sprained toe on his right foot, but don’t worry, he’s tracking toward playing. EDGE Chase Young got a stinger, and his status? Well, it’s about as clear as mud.
As for the series notes, the Cardinals have won two of the past three meetings. But Washington has a home field advantage going back to 1999, winning their past eight home games against Arizona. Coach Gannon, who used to be with the Eagles, has a good record against Washington. And Ron Rivera? Well, he’s entering his fourth season, so he’s practically a Washington monument by now.
And for those fantasy football fanatics out there, keep an eye on Jahan Dotson. Whether or not McLaurin plays, Dotson is set to be a big part of the game plan. Tight ends were a focus in Kansas City’s offense when Eric Bieniemy was there, so Logan Thomas might have a good day too. But don’t forget, Washington has a deep receiving corps, so Dotson might just be catching everything thrown his way.
So, as we gear up for this thrilling contest, remember, in the NFL, anything can happen. Or, you know, it might just be another Sunday afternoon of football. Either way, grab your popcorn and settle in for the ride because you never know when the unexpected might happen in the nation’s capital!
