GLENDALE, Ariz. – This seems like a favorable matchup for Arizona.
The Cardinals’ defense is good at stopping the run; Philadelphia likes to run. The Cardinals are good at creating turnovers; Philadelphia is good at turning the ball over.
Arizona became the top-ranked defense against the run this week, allowing 72.5 rushing yards per game. It’s also allowing a league-low 3.15 yards per rush. Their work will be cut out for them with the Eagles, who are averaging 116 yards per game on the ground and 4.19 yards per rush. But, if Philadelphia wins this game, it’ll have to come in the air, where the Eagles are averaging 262.3 yards per game -- seventh best in the NFL.
While that number may sound intimidating, the impact of Eagles quarterback Nick Foles’ potency is negated by the seven interceptions and three fumbles he’s lost in six games. Arizona is plus-7 in the turnover margin, intercepting eight passes and recovering three fumbles, while scoring 26 points off those turnovers.
But Arizona can give itself a better chance to win if it can limit Philadelphia’s returns. The Eagles are one of three teams to return a kickoff for a touchdown and lead the league with 30.9 yards per kick return. The Cardinals are allowing 22.6 yards per kickoff return. Philadelphia has also returned a punt for a touchdown, but Arizona hasn’t given up a return touchdown while allowing just 6.7 yards per punt return.
Prediction: Cardinals 27, Eagles 17