This bout between the Arizona Cardinals and Cincinnati Bengals has the highest total on the Week 17 docket, so while the two teams are eliminated from the postseason picture, there’s still reason to tune into the showdown at Paycor Stadium on Sunday, December 28.
My early NFL picks and Cardinals vs. Bengals predictions expect Cincy and quarterback Joe Burrow to win handily with the Arizona offense struggling to keep up on Sunday afternoon.
Cardinals vs Bengals predictions
Here are our early thoughts on the spread and total for this week’s game. We will have a full game preview (with a best bet and SGP) later in the week.
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Early Cardinals vs Bengals spread pick: Bengals -7
Not only have the Arizona Cardinals dropped seven straight, they’ve also failed to cover the spread in six of those games. It’s been a different story for the Cincinnati Bengals.
Cincy has covered the number in four of the past five, and the Bengals are 2-2 outright since star quarterback Joe Burrow returned. Burrow also ranks sixth in EPA+CPOE composite while throwing for 7.1 yards per attempt during the four-game stretch.
I’m expecting another big game from Burrow, too.
The Cardinals have allowed an average of 34.7 points per game during the losing streak while also surrendering the fourth-highest EPA per play, after all.
Additionally, the Bengals have also shown more bite on defense since Burrow’s returned, with Cincy allowing the 11th-lowest EPA per play compared to the third-highest mark through the four games prior.
Early Cardinals vs Bengals total pick: Under 53.5
This total has skyrocketed at FanDuel, with the look-ahead number at 50.5, and then this total opening at 51.5 on Sunday evening.
The steam to the Over aligns with the highlighted Arizona struggles on defense, and Burrow leading the Cincy offense.
Still, I think the number has now moved too far.
The early weather forecast calls for wind and rain, and Arizona quarterback Jacoby Brissett hasn’t been sharp the past three weeks with the third worst EPA+CPOE composite while throwing for a pedestrian 6.3 yards per attempt and 59.1 completion percentage.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Cards pack it in, either. This is a lost season, and the Arizona roster is riddled with injuries on both sides of the ball.
As noted, the Bengals have tightened up defensively, too.
Cardinals vs Bengals odds
- Cardinals vs. Bengals spread: Bengals -7
- Cardinals vs. Bengals moneyline: Cardinals +310, Bengals -390
- Cardinals vs. Bengals Over/Under: 53.5
How to watch Cardinals vs Bengals
- Cardinals vs. Bengals matchup
- Date: Sunday, December 28, 2025, 1:00 p.m. ET
- City: Cincinnati, OH
- Venue: Paycor Stadium
- TV: FOX
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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