Cardinals vs Titans prediction and analysis

Game Context

The Arizona Cardinals (2-2) host the Tennessee Titans (0-4) at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Sunday, October 5. The posted market line lists the Cardinals as 7.5-point favorites with an over/under around 41.5. Both teams bring contrasting narratives: Arizona is competitive but erratic, while Tennessee is mired in a multi-game slump and struggling to move the ball.

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Key Factors to Watch

• Offensive efficiency: Arizona is averaging roughly 20.5 points per game, with Kyler Murray operating as the clear engine — completing a high percentage of his throws and producing both through-the-air and with his legs. Tennessee’s offense, by contrast, has managed just 12.8 points per game and ranks near the bottom in passing yards.
• Quarterback play and turnovers: Kyler has shown the ability to create big plays but has been prone to timely mistakes. Tennessee’s quarterback play has been inconsistent and has not sustained drives — that turnover and sack margin will be decisive.
• Run game and clock control: Arizona averages just over 100 rushing yards a game; Tennessee’s Tony Pollard is their workhorse and one of the few reliable playmakers. If Nashville can establish a ground presence, they can shorten the game and keep Kyler off the field — but so far they’ve struggled to do that.
• Defense and situational play: The Cardinals defense has shown flashes — generating sacks and tackles for loss — but they’ve also allowed yardage. Tennessee’s defense has been on the field a lot and is allowing 30 points per game, which paints a bleak picture when their offense cannot sustain possession.
• Home field and motivation: Arizona has the advantage of playing at home and desperately needs to stop the bleeding after back-to-back close losses. Tennessee’s confidence is shaky after an 0-4 start and a shutout loss last week.

Matchup Analysis

On paper this is a straightforward mismatch. Arizona’s offense is more dynamic and has more reliable weapons — Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride provide consistent targets and Kyler’s rushing adds a second dimension. The Titans’ passing attack has underperformed, and their defense has been worn down by short drives and slow offensive possessions.

Tennessee’s best path to staying competitive is to control the line of scrimmage, run the ball, and limit possessions (and turnovers). That requires better execution than they’ve shown. Arizona’s defensive front has the ability to disrupt a one-dimensional attack; even if the Cardinals don’t dominate the box score, they can win the time-of-possession battle by forcing the Titans into mistakes and three‑and‑outs.

Betting Angles & Totals

• Spread: Arizona at -7.5 feels like a reasonable market given the Titans’ offensive struggles and Arizona’s need to respond at home. If Kyler plays efficiently and avoids major turnovers, the Cardinals should be able to cover.
• Total: The 41.5 number is intriguing. Arizona projects to score in the mid-20s; Tennessee’s scoring floor has been very low but a bounce in offensive production is possible. This game could lean toward the over if Arizona gets an early lead and the Titans are forced to throw more, or it could remain under if Arizona controls the clock. As a secondary angle, consider a small play on the over if lines move and both teams’ offensive lines remain healthy.
• Player props: Kyler Murray rushing yards and Marvin Harrison Jr. receptions/yardage look playable if you believe Arizona resumes a more aggressive, playmaking approach. Conversely, avoid large wagers on Tennessee’s passing props until there’s a sign of sustained improvement.

Final Prediction

Taking into account recent form, offensive balance, and situational advantages, I expect Arizona to control this game from the middle quarters onward. Tennessee’s inability to sustain drives places too much pressure on a defense that has already been on the field extensively. Arizona has the playmakers and the motivation to put this game away and cover the spread at home.

Prediction: Arizona Cardinals -7.5