Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time: 9:30 PM ET
Location: Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, CO
TV: NFL Network
The Arizona Cardinals head to the high altitude of Denver to take on the Broncos in a Week 2 preseason matchup. Arizona is looking to carry momentum from a strong start to preseason play, while Denver hopes to see sharper execution on both sides of the ball after a mixed performance last week.
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Matchup Overview
Denver enters as a 6-point home favorite with the total set at 40.5. The Cardinals are expected to rotate Clayton Tune and rookie Spencer Rattler heavily, while the Broncos will give Jarrett Stidham and rookie Bo Nix extended snaps after Russell Wilson’s brief appearance.
Arizona Cardinals
Offensively, Arizona moved the ball effectively in Week 1 thanks to Tune’s quick decision-making and Rattler’s willingness to challenge tight windows. RB Keaontay Ingram provided steady production, helping sustain drives. Defensively, the Cardinals forced two turnovers but struggled against outside runs. Special teams were a bright spot, highlighted by a 53-yard field goal conversion. Arizona is 4-1 ATS in their last five preseason games.
Denver Broncos
Denver’s offense showed promise in stretches, with Stidham delivering accurate throws and Nix flashing mobility on bootlegs. The running game, led by rookie Audric Estime, was efficient between the tackles. On defense, the Broncos generated steady pressure and recorded three sacks, but they’ll look to clean up penalties that extended opponents’ drives. Special teams were solid, with consistent kicking from Wil Lutz. Denver has gone Over in five of their last seven preseason games.
Key Matchups to Watch
- QB Depth Performance – Tune and Rattler (ARI) vs. Stidham and Nix (DEN) could decide the outcome.
- Run Game Efficiency – Both teams want to establish the ground attack early.
- Penalty Discipline – Mistakes could be costly in a competitive preseason contest.
Betting Odds
- Spread: Broncos -6 / Cardinals +6
- Total (O/U): 40.5
- Moneyline: Broncos -240 / Cardinals +195
(Odds via ESPN BET at time of writing — subject to change)
Prediction
Denver’s home-field advantage and defensive front give them the upper hand, but Arizona’s QB rotation is good enough to keep them within striking distance. Expect Denver to control the trenches, but the Cardinals to make it close late.
Projected Final Score:
Broncos 23 – Cardinals 20
- Total Points: 43 → ✅ Over 40.5
- Margin: 3 points → ✅ Cardinals cover +6
Best Bets
- Cardinals +6 (-110) – QB depth should keep Arizona inside the number.
- Over 40.5 (-110) – Late scoring could push this game over the total.
- First Half Cardinals +3.5 (-110) – Arizona’s early offensive tempo could surprise Denver.
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