NFL · December 28, 2025
Arizona Cardinals @ Cincinnati Bengals
Free LineCrush game report for Arizona Cardinals @ Cincinnati Bengals on December 28, 2025, with matchup analysis and pick ideas generated for the daily slate. Reports can update as lineups, injuries, and odds develop, so confirm time-sensitive details before acting.
Matchup Analysis
Bengals' Offensive Momentum vs Cardinals' Defensive Struggles
Cincinnati showcased offensive firepower in their 23-7 halftime lead over Arizona, with Joe Burrow connecting on two touchdown passes to Ja'Marr Chase. The Bengals' 230 passing yards and 4-of-7 third-down conversion rate demonstrate rhythm, while Arizona managed just 91 yards of offense and 0-of-4 third-down conversions through two quarters. Burrow's strong recent performance (309 yards, 4 TDs vs Miami) suggests the Cardinals' defense remains vulnerable to explosive plays.
Cardinals' Receiving Core Compromised by Injuries
Marvin Harrison Jr., while listed as active after aggravating a heel injury in Cincinnati, will have his snaps managed for the second consecutive game. This limits Arizona's ability to stretch the field against a Bengals secondary allowing 402.8 yards per game (league-worst). The Cardinals have also failed to cover the spread in their last four games without Harrison, compounding their offensive limitations.
Home-Field Advantage and December Trends
Cincinnati's 5-10 record masks a strong home trend: the Bengals have won each of their last eight home games without tight end Drew Sample and covered the spread in their last five December games as favorites. Arizona, conversely, enters having lost 11 consecutive Sunday games, though they've won their last two December games as underdogs against AFC North opponents.
Cardinals' Scoring Drought Extends
Arizona failed to score more than 20 points in four consecutive games heading into Sunday's matchup, with their 73 first-half yards suggesting continued offensive struggles. Cincinnati's improved defensive execution—evidenced by strong third-down coverage and time-of-possession control—should continue to suppress Arizona's scoring output.
Pick Ideas
Bengals -7 (-115)
Cincinnati's dominant first-half performance and recent offensive consistency, combined with Arizona's 11-game Sunday losing streak and defensive vulnerabilities, support the 7-point spread. The Bengals' home-field advantage and December favorite track record solidify this pick.
Over 53.5 Total Points
Both teams have trended toward the Over this season (Cardinals 9-6, Bengals 8-6-1), and Cincinnati's league-worst pass defense allows 402.8 yards per game, creating potential for a high-scoring affair despite Arizona's recent scoring drought.
Ja'Marr Chase Touchdown Prop
Chase connected on two touchdown passes through just two quarters and exploits Arizona's secondary with Harrison Jr. operating at limited capacity. Chase represents strong value for scoring in the second half given his early-game success.
Bengals First Half -4
Cincinnati's 23-7 first-half lead demonstrates dominance, and Arizona has historically struggled in first quarters against home favorites from the AFC North, losing the first quarter in three of their last four such matchups.