NFL Preseason Pick - Arizona at Chicago Arizona (1-1 SU and ATS) at Chicago (1-1 SU and ATS)
The Cardinals look to rebound from last week’s ugly loss at New England when they travel to Soldier Field to battle the Bears.
Arizona was thoroughly dominated by the Patriots in Saturday’s 30-3 setback, getting outgained by 335 total yards. Meanwhile, the Bears are coming off a 24-3 rout of the Chargers, but Chicago scored 14 of its points on an interception return and a punt return, and finished with 109 fewer yards than San Diego.
Cardinals coach Dennis Green said his first-string units will play into the third quarter, with the exception of RB Edgerrin James, who likely will only be on the field for a series or two. Kurt Warner, who has completed 68 percent of his throws for 176 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in the preseason, gets the start at quarterback. Rookie Matt Leinart, who went 4-for-11 for 45 yards in his NFL debut last week, will replace Warner. John Navarre likely will finish up.
Like Arizona, Chicago’s starters also are slated to play into the third quarter. Quarterback Rex Grossman (40 percent, 130 yards, one INT) remains the starter, despite being clearly outplayed by backup Brian Griese (72.7 percent, 150 yards, three TDs) in the first two games. One bit of good news for Grossman: For the first time this summer, he’ll have his top running back (Thomas Jones) and wideout (Mushin Muhammad) at his disposal.
Griese will take over for Grossman in the third quarter, and if he doesn’t finish the game, third-stringer Kyle Orton will.
Arizona is 5-5 (6-4 ATS) in August since Green became the coach in 2004, including 3-2 SU and ATS on the road. However, the Cardinals are perfect 3-0 ATS (2-1) in Week 3 over the past three preseasons.
Despite last week’s rout of San Diego, the Bears are still just 5-6 (4-7 ATS) at home in the preseason since 2001 and 3-6-1 ATS as a favorite. ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE |