NFL Week 15: Eagles vs. Cardinals odds, preview, and pick

A rookie quarterback making his first start in the NFL, against one of the best defenses in the league – it had the makings of a potentially ugly loss for the Philadelphia Eagles. 

They were certainly written off in this space a week ago. 

Instead, thanks to the performances of Jalen Hurts leading the offense and a stout defensive effort, the Eagles prevailed as 7.5-point underdogs to defeat the New Orleans Saints in Week 14. 

Now, can the Eagles pull off another upset this week, this time on the road against the Arizona Cardinals?

What does Eagles offense have in store for Arizona?

Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts deserves credit for his performance last week against New Orleans. 

The Oklahoma product completed 17 of his 30 pass attempts for 167 yards and one touchdown. Hurts also rushed for 106 yards, and was a huge part of a ground game that racked up 247 yards. 

The Eagles benefitted from the fact the Saints weren't ready for Hurts, but the Cardinals will have a full week plus film to prepare for the new-look Philadelphia offense. 

The Cardinals give up about 4.5 yards per rush to opposing offenses, and having a running back plus a quarterback capable of putting up big numbers poses a different challenge for Arizona. 

If Arizona can shut down the run, or limit it, the Cardinals could force Philadelphia into more passing opportunities – and that bodes well for Arizona. 

Cardinals try to make it two in a row

The season was in danger of getting away from the Cardinals down the stretch, following four losses in five games prior to last week. 

The Cardinals were able to defeat the New York Giants last weekend, which could be pivotal in their quest for a playoff berth. 

Kyler Murray was better, completing 24 of his 35 passes for 244 yards and one touchdown, and Arizona’s defense shut down a depleted Giants offense. DeAndre Hopkins had an explosive day with nine catches for 136 yards, after three straight games in which he failed to eclipse 60 yards. 

The Cardinals have been streaky all season, and while their win against New York wasn’t a work of art, it’s something to build on. Their offense, for the most part, took care of the ball. Their defense allowed only seven points. 

The Eagles pose an interesting test. 

The Eagles have been underwhelming all season long, but in their most desperate hour, they found enough of a spark behind Hurts and their defense to upset a very good team.  

The Cardinals would be foolish to take their foot off the gas. 

Eagles vs. Cardinals injury report

There appears to be good news for the Eagles, as Darius Slay (concussion) was back at practice in a limited capacity on Thursday and Friday, after missing Wednesday’s session. He is still listed as questionable. Offensive lineman Jack Driscoll is out for Sunday after missing all of this week with a knee injury, which means Matt Pryor will start at right tackle for Philadelphia. 

The Cardinals have three players listed as questionable for Sunday. That includes running back Chase Edmonds (ankle), who practiced in limit capacity Friday. Cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick (hamstring), and offensive lineman Justin Pugh (calf) are also listed as questionable. 

DeAndre Hopkins (non-injury related) did not practice Wednesday or Thursday, but was limited Friday. 

Betting trends

Both of these teams have been underwhelming against the spread in certain situations. The Cardinals are just 2-4 ATS at home, and the Eagles are 1-5 ATS on the road. 

The Cardinals are 3-3 ATS after a win, while Philadelphia is just 1-2. The Over isn’t doing much better, going 5-8 in Eagles' games and 4-9 in Cardinals' games. 

Score prediction: Eagles 24, Cardinals 27

NFL picks: Eagles +6.5, Over 48.5

---

Wager on Week 15 of the 2020 NFL season at BetAmerica!