Week One NFL Pick: Washington Redskins at Arizona Cardinals
Both Teams Feature New QBs
One of the Week One late afternoon NFL games has the Washington Redskins at the Arizona Cardinals. The game is set to kickoff at 4:25 p.m. E.T. Our 2018 NFL Week One Washington plays Arizona pick has the Cardinals at -2.0 and the over/under at 44.0. The spread started with the two teams even, and still stands at some books as even and at others as anywhere from one to two. One quick note, in preseason play, the Redskins were 1-3, while the Cardinals posted a 3-1 mark.
Washington Offense vs Cardinals Defense
Former Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith comes to the Redskins after a stellar 2017 season. The receiving group is deep and includes wideouts Jamison Crowder and Paul as well as TEs Jordan Reed and Vernon Davis. Veteran RB Adrian Peterson joins the Skins after hitting the skids the last three seasons, as the last three years, he’s gone from Minnesota to New Orleans to Arizona. Over the past few seasons, Peterson’s output has been diminished greatly due to injuries and age. The offensive line is thin.
Arizona was fairly solid last season. The defensive line is solid and should be able to penetrate the Washington O-line. As far as the linebacking unit is concerned, it’s sound, but it lacks depth. Arizona also has a fine secondary. The D-backs include CB Patrick Peterson. He has been selected to six Pro Bowls, is a skilled defender, and premium athlete. Peterson is one of the top corners in the NFL.
Arizona Offense vs Redskins Defense
Sam Bradford is the new Arizona QB. Bradford is an accurate passer and fine leader. Veteran receiver Larry Fitzgerald still continues to be productive. He’s a major scoring threat. Six-year vet wideout Brice Butler starts with rookie WR Christian Kirk backing him up. TE Ricky Seals-Jones played well in 2017 as a rookie. Look for him to continue to be a threat. If RB David Johnson can stay healthy, he could prove to be especially productive. The offensive line has been upgraded, but is still problematic.
Last season, the Redskins were better than average when it came to sacks and picks. But, they were tied for 27th in points allowed. This is still a problematic group. The Washington defensive line is quite thin and will have a tough time versus the rush. Although the LB unit is solid, they are without star Ryan Kerrigan who’s nursing an injury. The secondary is average at best.
2018 NFL Week One Washington Plays Arizona Pick
Our 2018 NFL Week One Washington plays Arizona pick looks to be a tough call. We like the Cardinals at even money. We also like the under. We expect about 35 points to be scored in this game.
Summary Skins at Cards Picks: Arizona at even money and under 44.0
