Arizona Cardinals vs. Indianapolis Colts 8/17/24 – The Arizona Cardinals, as well as the Indianapolis Colts, are scheduled to meet this Saturday, August 17, 2024, to recover from their first game losses, which is a key moment for both teams as they want to set a tone for the season ahead. The Lucas Oil Stadium will be hosting this clash between the teams that have all registered one loss in an attempt to better place themselves ahead of other teams in terms of betting purposes and fans’ expectations, too. As NFL week 2 pre-season approaches, many people interested in top free NFL predictions are looking at this game.
Arizona Cardinals vs. Indianapolis Colts 8/17/24
| When: | Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Lucas Oil Stadium |
| TV: | – |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cardinals | +3 (-110) | 35.5 over (-110) | +135 |  |
| Colts | -3 (-110) | 35.5 under (-110) | -160 | |
| ||||
POV: you are at Cardinals joint practice pic.twitter.com/aXScsiTVxe
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) August 15, 2024
The current betting odds suggest a tight contest with the Colts favored at home. The spread sits at three points, indicating expectations of a closely contested battle. Based on these odds, the Colts are slightly favored to cover the spread, but the Cardinals’ recent ability to perform against the odds could turn this into a compelling wager for bettors.
Clayton Tune QB vs. Sam Ehlinger QB
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Clayton Tune has shown some flashes in the preseason. With a completion rate of 62.5% and 163 yards passing in his first game, Tune had shown that he could be an effective game manager. A passer rating of 96.4 with one touchdown pass and no interceptions implies that the Cardinals’ offense could be steadied.
On the other hand, Sam Ehlinger, who is currently playing for the Indianapolis Colts, managed an 83.3% in his preseason debut, although he only made 80 yards through the air. Despite the high completion percentage, Ehlinger threw an interception and ended up having a passer rating of only 79.2. His quick release on short throws will be vital enough to even expose them against the Cardinals’ defensive schemes.
The game depends on performances from these two quarterbacks when they meet on the field. Tune’s ability to hit receivers downfield might challenge the Indianapolis Colts’ secondary, while Ehlinger’s quick wits will test the Arizona Cardinals’ adaptability defensively. The different styles of these quarterbacks are bound to shape this game tremendously.
Ground Game and Aerial Attack: The Cardinals’ Strategy
Michael Carter and Dan Chisena are key figures in the Cardinals’ offensive strategy. Carter, with a robust average of 5.9 yards per carry, provides a solid ground game option, capable of breaking through tight spaces. Chisena, accumulating 63 receiving yards on perfect target receptions, offers reliable hands and route-running precision. Their performances will be pivotal in breaking down the Colts’ defensive line and secondary.
Colts’ Rush and Receive: Key to Victory
Evan Hull and D.J. Montgomery play essential roles in the Colts’ offensive setup. Hull, though limited to 16 rushing yards, has the potential to exploit gaps with more carries. Montgomery, who averaged 22.5 yards per reception, poses a significant deep threat. Their ability to capitalize on their opportunities will be crucial for the Colts to maintain offensive momentum.
Trends
Arizona Cardinals Betting Trends
Arizona is 6-3 ATS in their last 9 games.
Cardinals are 3-12 SU in their last 15 games.
Arizona is 2-5 SU in their last 7 games against Indianapolis.
Arizona is 2-7 SU in their last 9 games on the road.
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona’s last 5 games when playing on the road against Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Colts Betting Trends
Indianapolis is 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Indianapolis’ last 8 games.
Indianapolis is 2-4 SU in their last 6 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Indianapolis’ last 8 games against Arizona.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Indianapolis’ last 7 games at home.
Arizona Cardinals vs. Indianapolis Colts Betting Prediction
Considering the teams’ preseason performances and historical betting trends, this game is likely to be tight with a possible Colts tilt due to their home-field advantage and slightly better defense. However, it will be wrong to underrate the Cardinals’ ability to play under Tune’s guidance mostly as big plays can come both on the ground as well as through the air.
From a gambling standpoint, one might consider taking the Cardinals to beat the spread on the back of their strong performance against it. In line with this argument, it may also make sense for someone to bet that the total goes below 35.5 since recent trends indicate that both teams are more likely to score behind the set margin in their previous matches. Those individuals who want a good deal have a chance of finding these bets at some of the top-tier online betting sites, which would enable them to get high-quality bets that are backed up by thorough analysis.
Score Prediction: Colts 17, Cardinals 14.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: August 14, 2024
Last updated: March 26, 2025