The Dallas Cowboys build on a positive preseason opener when they visit the Arizona Cardinals in Week 2 of the exhibition schedule Saturday.
While the defense was the star of that Week 1 win over Seattle, the Dallas offense needs answers – especially when it comes to Dak Prescott’s backup.
Neither team is expected to give their top talents any action, so the spread sits near a pick’em with Arizona listed as slight home chalk.
My Cowboys vs. Cardinals predictions call for an emphasis on passing and my NFL picks are banking on some fireworks at State Farm Stadium on Aug. 22.
Cowboys vs Cardinals predictions
Percentages courtesy of Kalshi, one of the best prediction market apps.
Start trading with Kalshi today!
Sign up now using our exclusive Kalshi promo code 'COVERS35' and trade $25 on any event contracts to get $35 — including NFL preseason!
*Eligible U.S. locations only
Who will win Cowboys vs Cardinals: Cowboys +1.5
Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer ran the ball 36 times in the Week 1 preseason win over Seattle, versus just 27 dropbacks from backups Joe Milton and Sam Howell.
Both quarterbacks played well versus the Seahawks and Saturday’s game will be another chance for those two to make their case for QB2. That should keep play consistent and competitive as Milton and Howell split snaps.
On the other side of the ball, new defensive coordinator Christian Parker received positive reviews in his play-calling debut. Dallas did an excellent job shutting down Seattle’s offense, specifically the passing game.
Parker faces a retooled Arizona Cardinals attack under new head coach Mike LaFleur and OC Nathaniel Hackett, who are also sitting the majority of their offensive starters Saturday.
TOP PICK
Cowboys vs Cardinals Over/Under pick: Over 37.5
The Cardinals won’t play starter Jacoby Brissett on Saturday but Arizona’s drop in production from QB1 to QB2 isn’t as steep as most teams. That says something about the Cards’ quarterback quality.
Journeyman passer Gardner Minshew is expected to play the first half and beyond versus Dallas, with Kedon Slovis picking up the rest of the snaps.
Both quarterbacks did damage in their preseason debuts, amassing a collective 176 yards on 21-for-25 passing with two TDs from Minshew. The fan favorite has plenty of experience as a starter, has worked with first and second teams in camp, and often shines as a preseason stud for whichever team takes him on.
With the Cowboys pumping up their passing plays, there’s potential for deeper strikes and more points than this modest total projects.
Cowboys vs Cardinals live odds
More Covers NFL betting tools
Cowboys vs Cardinals weather
There’s a 100% chance of dome in the forecast at State Farm Stadium on Saturday.
How to watch Ravens vs Vikings
| Location | State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ |
| Date | Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026 |
| Kickoff | 10 p.m. ET |
| TV | NFL Network |
Cowboys vs Cardinals latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
