Arizona Cardinals: 2020 game predictions
By Scott Allen
September
Week 1: @ San Francisco 49ers
This game last year was the tale of two games really. The Cardinals went into San Francisco and took off to a 16-0 lead. They eventually allowed the 49ers back into the game.
The defense did not cooperate with the Cardinals up 26-23 and fell apart at the end. With an upgraded defense, especially in the middle with linebacker Isaiah Simmons, that could make all the difference in a close game this season.
Expect a good, close game. The Cardinals come out with the surprise win 27-21 win.
Week 2: Washington Redskins
The Redskins last came to the Valley of the Sun to open the 2018 season. That started what would be then head coach Steve Wilks’ only season with the Cardinals.
A 24-6 loss where the Cardinals were never really in the game was a tale we’d hear a lot. This time around, it will be different, although the Redskins are going to be more dangerous as well.
The Cardinals will need to be aware of defensive end Chase Young. Redskins quarterback Dwayne Haskins will still likely make mistakes. The Cardinals will need to capitalize and they will.
Cardinals pull out the win 26-23.
Week 3: Detroit Lions
In what it seems like an annual trip for the Lions, another matchup at State Farm Stadium where pretty much anything can go. Last year’s game was a trip.
Down 24-6 in the fourth quarter, Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray lead the team to a tie game at the end of regulation tied at 24. It was Murray’s NFL regular season debut.
That game ended in a 27-27 tie. This one won’t. The Cardinals will pull away early and hold on, something they weren’t very good at last season. 28-17.