Arizona Cardinals vs
Buffalo BillsPredictions & Preview

Buffalo Bills Favored to Win Season Opener Against Arizona Cardinals at Highmark Stadium

In the opening weekend of NFL action, the Arizona Cardinals take on the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. The Cardinals, who had a disappointing 4-13 record in 2023, are counting on the health of their quarterback to turn things around. Meanwhile, the Bills, who finished 11-6 last season, have some unanswered questions heading into the new year. Buffalo is favored to win by 6 points, with the current line at Buffalo -6.5. The game kicks off at 1:00 EST in Orchard Park, New York.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Cardinals +248 | Bills -300
• Spread: Cardinals +6.5 (-110) | Bills -6.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 47 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Buffalo will win straight-up is 75%.

Arizona vs Buffalo Stats

Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals have struggled in recent seasons, with head coach Jonathan Gannon leading the team to back-to-back four-win seasons. Franchise QB Kyler Murray missed half the previous season due to injuries but is now healthy and has a new top target in first-round pick Marvin Harrison Jr. The addition of Harrison Jr. gives Murray a downfield threat, which could open up more opportunities for the QB. The team has also made significant upgrades on defense with acquisitions like DE Justin Jones and DT Bilal Nichols. Despite some injury concerns, the Cardinals are looking to improve on their offensive and defensive rankings from last season. Their current power ranking is 24, with them ranked 24 in offense, 31 in defense, and holding a record of 0-0 this season.

Buffalo Bills Analysis

The Buffalo Bills may not be seen as a Super Bowl contender by some due to recent disappointments and key losses, such as wide receivers Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis. Quarterback Josh Allen may have to rely more on running back James Cook, who has shown improvement in the offseason. The Bills' defense remains a strong point, ranking fourth in the NFL for points allowed last season. Key players such as safety Damar Hamlin and linebacker Dorian Williams are stepping up due to injuries. In terms of power rankings, the Bills are ranked 5th overall and have a strong offense and defense, scoring an average of 26.63 and allowing 18.68 points per game, respectively. The team faces Arizona next, who have a 2-1 record in their last three matchups against Buffalo. In terms of injuries, defensive end Javon Solomon did not practice, while quarterback Mitchell Trubisky was a full participant on Thursday.

Bills Favored to Win Season Opener Against Cardinals Despite Speculation

Despite speculation that the Bills may not perform as well this season, the spread for the season opener suggests otherwise. The upcoming matchup between these two teams marks their first meeting in four years, with the Cardinals securing a 32-20 victory in their last encounter at home. The potential synergy between Murray and Harrison shows promise, although it may take time to fully develop in their inaugural regular season game together. Buffalo's defense has the capability to disrupt this connection and apply pressure on Murray, while Allen's experience as a seasoned quarterback allows for adaptability during the game. Although the Cardinals have shown competitiveness on the road, the Bills' strong home record indicates an advantage in this matchup. Ultimately, expect the Bills to emerge victorious and cover the spread.

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