The 1-8 Arizona Cardinals are underdogs for the 10th straight week this season as they take on the 4-5 Atlanta Falcons. The Cardinals are 1.5-point underdogs in the game and have lost six straight contests, although it will be the first start of the season for quarterback Kyler Murray and running back James Conner returns to the lineup after four weeks on injured reserve.
How will the game play out?
Below are expert picks for the game.
Listen to the latest from Cards Wire’s Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify.
Jess Root, Cards Wire
Cardinals 24, Falcons 20
I think this is the perfect storm for the Cardinals to win. Atlanta has given up 140+ rushing yards and 28+ points in their last 2 games and the return of Murray and Conner will be a big boost to the offense.
Matt Urben, Falcons Wire
Falcons 17, Cardinals 14
I honestly don’t know what to expect going into this game. Murray is a great talent, but there could definitely be some rust in his first game back. At the same time, the Falcons are in desperation mode and losing a third straight game to a 1-8 Cardinals team could put Arthur Smith’s job in serious jeopardy. My gut says the Falcons win a close game.
Blake Murphy, Redbird Reboot Podcast
Cardinals 23, Falcons 21
The Falcons try to drive for a game-winning field goal but Taylor Heinicke throws an interception.
Will McFadden, Bleav in Falcons podcast/The Falcoholic
Falcons 27, Cardinals 23
The Falcons win this game because they have to win this game. There is more on the line for Atlanta.
NFL Network panel
Of the 10 experts, only Daniel Jeremiah has the Cardinals winning.
More NFL Network experts
Patrick Clayborn: Cardinals 23, Falcons 21
Greg Rosenthal: Falcons 27, Cardinals 23
Cynthia Frelund: Falcons 27, Cardinals 21
