- What: NFL Regular Season Game
- When: December 28, 2024
- Who: Arizona Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Rams
- Time: 5:10 p.m. PST
- Where: Sofi Stadium (Los Angeles, CA)
As we gear up for this NFC West showdown, the Los Angeles Rams are riding high on a four-game winning streak, and they’re looking to keep that momentum rolling against the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals are limping into this matchup after being eliminated from playoff contention.
The Rams are favored by 6.5 points, and honestly, that’s a sweet spot just under the key number of 7. Let’s break down why I’m all in on the Rams to cover this spread.
Arizona
Now, let’s look at the Cardinals. Kyler Murray has had a decent season, throwing for 3,288 yards and 21 total touchdowns, but he’s also thrown nine interceptions.
The Cardinals have lost four of their last five games, and their playoff hopes were dashed last week against the Panthers.
With James Conner questionable and a banged-up offensive line, the Cardinals are going to struggle to find their rhythm.
Prepare for takeoff ✈️ pic.twitter.com/fDUOvjSG2W
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) December 28, 2024
Plus, Murray has thrown an interception in four of his nine meetings against the Rams, and with the pressure on, it’s likely he’ll make mistakes again.
The Cardinals have struggled to cover the spread, especially as underdogs. With their recent form and the stakes of this game, it’s hard to see them keeping it close.
Los Angeles
First off, let’s talk about the Rams’ offense. Matthew Stafford has been on fire lately, throwing 11 touchdowns against just one interception over the last six games.
He’s racked up 3,573 passing yards this season, and his completion percentage sits at a solid 66.6%.
With weapons like Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp back in the mix, the Rams’ passing attack is looking lethal. Nacua has been a revelation, notching at least 97 receiving yards in five of his last seven games.
IT'S GAMEDAY IN LA! ????️????️????️ pic.twitter.com/65mL5fAZja
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) December 28, 2024
This offense is not just good; it’s explosive, and the Cardinals’ defense is going to have a tough time keeping up.
In terms of betting trends, the Rams have been solid against the spread, especially at home.
They’ve covered in 12 of their last 15 games against NFC West opponents, and Sean McVay’s squad is 30-18-1 ATS against divisional rivals.
Cardinals-Rams Best Bet
The Rams’ defense has also stepped up, allowing just one touchdown over the last eight quarters. They’re going to be aggressive, especially with a playoff spot on the line.
The Cardinals’ offensive struggles, combined with the Rams’ defensive prowess, create a perfect storm for a Rams victory.
The Rams are not just looking to win; they’re looking to make a statement. With a spread of 6.5, I believe they’ll cover by at least a touchdown.
The combination of Stafford’s hot hand, a potent offense, and a defense that’s hitting its stride makes Rams -6.5 at -115 odds at BetMGM the best bet in this matchup. So, let’s ride with the Rams and watch them take care of business against the Cardinals.
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Tony Reyes is a sports betting analyst and reporter for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X @TonyParlay.
