Arizona Cardinals at Denver Broncos (-7)
Two of the league’s best teams — a combined record of 5-1 — square off Sunday following concurrent bye weeks. The touchdown spread is relatively large considering the ‘underdog’ in this game is undefeated, but if any team is capable of putting up points in bundles, it’s the Broncos. More accurately, it’s the well-rested Broncos.
Coming off a heart-breaking loss in Seattle despite an eight-point comeback in the waning minutes of the game, Denver has sat and stirred in its anticipation to return to the football field. Still awaiting a similar return to the gridiron is injured quarterback Carson Palmer, whose status continues to remain in flux.
The Cardinals may be legitimate contenders in the NFC West, but a meeting in Denver is less than ideal, given the circumstances. Since Manning joined the team in 2012, the Broncos are 5-1 following a loss. In those five wins, their average margin of victory is a robust 19.4 points.
Denver wins by two touchdowns and cover.
