Arizona Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Rams: Week 17 Betting Preview
Introduction
The Arizona Cardinals (7-8) are set to face the Los Angeles Rams (9-6) in a pivotal Week 17 matchup at SoFi Stadium. With the Rams leading the NFC West and the Cardinals striving to reach a .500 record, this game carries significant playoff implications for both teams.
Team Overviews
Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals have experienced a roller-coaster season, currently standing at 7-8. Offensively, quarterback Kyler Murray has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency, particularly in recent losses. The ground game, led by running back James Conner, has been a focal point, though Conner’s knee issues have limited his practice time. Defensively, safety Budda Baker continues to anchor the secondary, recently securing a three-year contract extension, reflecting his value to the team’s defensive schemes.
Los Angeles Rams
The Rams are on a four-game winning streak, bringing their record to 9-6 and placing them atop the NFC West. Their offense has been firing on all cylinders, with a balanced attack that keeps defenses guessing. Defensively, the Rams have been effective in pressuring quarterbacks, a factor that could be crucial against the mobile Kyler Murray. However, the potential absence of offensive tackle Rob Havenstein due to a shoulder injury could impact their offensive line’s stability.
Key Stats & Trends
Cardinals Against the Spread (ATS): The Cardinals have struggled recently, failing to cover the spread in their last three games.
Rams ATS: The Rams have covered the spread in their last four games, coinciding with their winning streak.
Head-to-Head: The Cardinals defeated the Rams earlier this season, with Kyler Murray accounting for three passing touchdowns and 59 rushing yards.
Injuries & Absences
Arizona Cardinals:
Paris Johnson Jr. (OT): Placed on injured reserve with a knee injury, ending his season.
Jonah Williams (OT): Also on injured reserve due to a knee injury, leaving the Cardinals without both starting tackles.
James Conner (RB): Limited in practice with a knee issue but is expected to play.
Los Angeles Rams:
Rob Havenstein (OT): Questionable with a shoulder injury sustained in practice, which could affect the offensive line’s performance.
Betting Lines & Odds
As of December 28, 2024, the Rams are favored by 4.5 points, with the over/under set at 47.5 points. The line opened with the Rams as 3-point favorites, indicating increased confidence from bettors in the Rams’ recent form.
Expert Analysis
Coaching strategies will play a pivotal role in this matchup. The Rams’ ability to contain Kyler Murray’s mobility will be crucial, especially given their previous struggles against him. Weather conditions in Los Angeles are expected to be mild, minimizing external factors. Intangibles such as the Cardinals’ motivation to avenge their earlier loss and the Rams’ drive to clinch the division add layers of intrigue to this contest.
Key Player Projections
Kyler Murray (QB, Cardinals): Projected to pass for 250 yards and 2 touchdowns, with an additional 40 rushing yards.
James Conner (RB, Cardinals): Expected to rush for 80 yards and 1 touchdown, assuming he plays through his knee issue.
Cooper Kupp (WR, Rams): Anticipated to record 7 receptions for 95 yards and 1 touchdown.
Matthew Stafford (QB, Rams): Projected to throw for 280 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Final Thoughts
This NFC West showdown carries significant weight for both teams. The Rams aim to secure the division title, while the Cardinals seek to finish their season on a high note. Bettors should monitor injury reports closely, as the status of key players like Rob Havenstein and James Conner could influence the game’s dynamics. For the latest predictive analytics and detailed projections, visit the matchup page on Sharpest Bets.
