Arizona Cardinals (3-11) vs. Chicago Bears (5-9)
Arizona Cardinals vs. Chicago Bears 12/24/23 – As NFL Week 16 unfolds, fans are in store for an intriguing contest: Arizona Cardinals travel to Chicago Bears this Sunday in a compelling matchup that could prove particularly riveting for free pickers seeking top NFL free picks today. Both teams boast 3-11 records; both look to finish strong. Located at Soldier Field and broadcast by FOX, this matchup presents an intimate picture of two struggling teams looking to close out their seasons in style.
Arizona’s season has been defined by an ineffective offense, yet they have shown glimpses of promise. Quarterback Joshua Dobbs has completed 167 passes with a 62% completion rate for 1569 yards and 8 touchdowns; running back James Conner has stood out with 717 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns while Marquise Brown has contributed 51 receptions totaling 574 yards and four scores on receptions alone.
Chicago Bears offense has shown more balance. QB Justin Fields has amassed 1976 passing yards with a 61.4 completion rate and 14 touchdowns; their running game has been led by D’Onta Foreman with 425 yards and four scores; DJ Moore is leading their receiving corps with 80 receptions totalling 1123 yards and seven scores, providing Justin Fields with consistent targets to target during games.
Arizona Cardinals vs. Chicago Bears Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 24, 2023 at 4:25 PM ET |
| Where: | Soldier Field |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Joshua Dobbs QB vs. Justin Fields QB
Joshua Dobbs has struggled since taking over as starting quarterback of the Cardinals. In four starts, he’s thrown five interceptions against eight touchdowns, leading to an 81.2 passer rating. When faced with Bears defense that ranks 25th against pass defense allowing over 250 yards per game through air, Dobbs should have opportunities to hit some big plays downfield; but with a limited roster and only 63 total yards rushing this season. For Arizona to remain competitive on the road Dobbs must avoid turnovers while connecting on some big plays through air to receivers or make some plays over long distance.
On the other side, Justin Fields is one of the most electric dual-threat quarterbacks in the league right now. He has terrorized opponents this season with his arm and legs. Fields has thrown for 14 touchdowns while adding an incredible 1,143 rushing yards and 8 more scores. The Cardinals have been gashed by running quarterbacks, giving up over 100 yards per game on the ground. Fields should be able to break contain and scramble for big chunks of yardage. Additionally, he has developed nicely as a passer and built strong chemistry with top target DJ Moore. Fields is a matchup nightmare for Arizona and gives the Bears a decisively better quarterback situation over the struggling Dobbs.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Chicago Bears -215, Total Odds: 44
The odds favor the Chicago Bears with a spread of -4.5 at -110 and a moneyline of -215. The total for the game is set at 44, with the under at -110. These odds reflect the Bears’ slightly better performance this season and their home-field advantage.
Arizona Cardinals Betting Trends
The Cardinals have struggled lately, going 3-17 straight up in their last 20 contests. However, Arizona has covered in 5 of the previous 6 games against Chicago. The Cardinals’ defense has allowed opponents to score over this total in 10 straight matchups. While the trends point to Arizona keeping it close, the offense lacks firepower.
Chicago Bears Betting Trends
Recently, Chicago has played well against the spread, covering in 4 of their previous 6 matchups. The under has hit in 6 of the Bears’ last 7 contests as well. But Chicago has disappointed at home, going 3-10 straight up in their last 13 games at Soldier Field. The Bears are just 2-4 against Arizona in their last 6 home matchups too.
Arizona Cardinals vs. Chicago Bears 12/24/23 Betting Picks
Analyzing the trends and performances, this game appears to be a battle of two underperforming teams with occasional flashes of brilliance. The Bears, with their home advantage and slightly better season performance, seem to have the upper hand. However, the Cardinals have shown they can be competitive, especially against the spread when facing Chicago.
In terms of betting, the Chicago Bears might be the safer pick for a straight win, but the Cardinals could be a smart choice against the spread, considering their history with Chicago. The total going under might be a reasonable bet, given both teams’ trends in that regard. For those looking for more nuanced betting strategies, the best premium insights and tips would suggest considering prop bets involving key players like Justin Fields and James Conner.
Free Pick and Prediction: Chicago Bears 24, Arizona Cardinals 20