Arizona Cardinals vs Kansas City Chiefs: Preview, prediction

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Dec 21, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson (21) reacts alongside safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) in the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Seahawks defeated the Cardinals 35-6. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Under new defensive coordinator, James Bettcher the Arizona Cardinals will show off a new look defense led by Patrick Peterson, Tyrann Mathieu, Frostee Rucker, and Calais Campbell. There will be many new starters on the defense and it will be interesting to see how they perform together as a unit.

A group to watch closely will be the linebackers. There is a whole lot of competition for both outside linebacker and inside. LaMarr Woodley and Alex Okafor are battling for the outside linebacker spot. Many, including myself, expect Okafor to have a much better outing in the preseason compared to Woodley. Third year linebacker, Kevin Minter has been a dud so far, and with Sean Witherspoon out with a hamstring injury now is his chance to make an impression on the coaching staff for more playing time this season.

The Arizona Cardinals have a lot of depth on the defensive line, this unit should put a lot of pressure on the Chief’s quarterbacks and offensive line. Fourth round pick Rodney Gunter has impressed during camp and should be something to look forward to watching during the game. If the defense puts pressure on the Chiefs’ offense and force turnovers than the Cardinals will have a good chance at winning this game.

Odds:

Arizona -2.5

O/U: 34.5

Prediction:

While the result is not as important as much as the team’s production, a win will still help the attitude of the team headed towards the regular season. With this being said, I expect the defense to create stops, and the offense to be able to muster up some points. If the offense can move the down the field and protect the ball, than the rest should come easy. Cardinals 27, Chiefs 17

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