The New England Patriots haven’t won a game in a while, and after their bye week, they’re traveling across the country for a Week 15 matchup with the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on Sunday.
New England’s 3-10 running might have them out of playoff contention, but they could still use some wins to end the season to prove that they’re heading in the right direction with Jerod Mayo as their head coach.
At the same time, Arizona is still alive in the NFC playoff race and a loss for Jonathan Gannon’s team would make it much more difficult for them to come back and steal the seventh seed.
Before we see these two teams take the field on Sunday afternoon, let’s see what some experts are saying about this matchup.
NFL picks, predictions Week 15: Patriots vs. Cardinals
Vinnie Iyer, Sporting News: Patriots 20, Cardinals 20
Iyer: “Jerod Mayo will get his team ready well after a bye, and Drake Maye should have more confidence with his passing and running. Kyler Murray is back in a strange funk, as Arizona’s offense remains inconsistent. The Cardinals’ run defense can also keep the Patriots in the game until their pass defense makes the game-changing play late vs. Maye.”
Bill Bender, Sporting News: Patriots 19, Cardinals 20
Bender: “Arizona is 4-3 S/U at home this season, and they are looking to snap a three-game losing streak. The Patriots have been a hit-or-miss play on the road this season, but they have covered in four of their past six games. Drake Maye continues to improve with each start, and that maturation will continue in another close call on the road. “
Jeremy Cluff, Arizona Republic: Patriots 20, Cardinals 24
Cluff: “The Cardinals’ postseason chances are hanging by a thread. They’ll find a way to keep them alive at least for another week.”
Matt Johnson, Sportsnaut: Patriots 17, Cardinals 27
Johnson: “Kyler Murray and the Arizona Cardinals are riding a three-game losing streak, but that should come to an end against one of the worst teams in the NFL. The New England Patriots lack the pass rush to disrupt Murray and this run defense also stands little chance against James Conner. Swinging this into a two-score win for Arizona will be its front seven taking complete advantage of a woeful Patriots offensive line.”
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