The Arizona Cardinals enter their Week 1 matchup as heavy favorites against the New Orleans Saints. Experts predict a comfortable victory, with the spread pegged at -6.5 for Arizona and widespread speculation that New Orleans may finish near the bottom of the league.
The Cardinals top concern heading into Week 1 against Saints

Key Takeaways:
- Arizona is heavily favored in its Week 1 game.
- The spread currently stands at -6.5 in the Cardinals’ favor.
- Many experts predict the Saints finishing near the bottom of the NFL standings.
- The game takes place in Glendale, offering a home-field boost.
Introduction
The Arizona Cardinals approach their first regular-season game against the New Orleans Saints with high expectations. According to current betting lines, the Cardinals are favored by a -6.5 spread, underscoring the confidence many experts have in their performance. The upcoming matchup not only sets the tone for the Cardinals’ season but also signals a potentially difficult year ahead for the Saints.
The Cardinals’ Favorable Odds
The -6.5 spread places a spotlight on Arizona, suggesting that the breakaway margin could be decisive in Week 1. Many analysts see this as a sign of an enduring advantage the Cardinals hold, given their roster strength and home-field momentum in Glendale. While spreads are never a guarantee, the number points to a substantial belief in Arizona’s early-season firepower.
What This Means for the Saints
For New Orleans, the outlook appears clouded. Expert predictions have the Saints finishing near the bottom of the NFL standings this season, setting a low bar for success in their opener. Despite these projections, the Saints could find motivation in defying expectations, potentially transforming the matchup into a more competitive contest than many wagering lines suggest.
Early Season Stakes
Week 1 victories often ripple through the rest of the season—teams that manage an early win against formidable opponents can gain crucial momentum. For the Cardinals, capitalizing on favorable odds is especially important. A convincing win in the first game can confirm their status as one of the stronger teams to watch, while a surprising upset by the Saints could upend early-season narratives.
Conclusion
As kickoff approaches, the promise of a commanding start for the Arizona Cardinals looms large. With a -6.5 edge, spirited expectations, and a Saints team projected to struggle, Week 1 in Glendale may offer an early glimpse of how both squads will fare this year. Whether the Cardinals deliver on the hype—or the Saints rally against the odds—remains to be seen once action hits the field.