NFL Expert Pick: Carolina vs Arizona

The Cardinals will to keep their momentum going as they host the 10 point underdog Carolina Panthers at 4:15 pm ET U of Phoenix Stadium in a rematch of the NFC divisional playoffs from last year.

NFL Betting Odds:

Carolina Panthers +10
Arizona Cardinals -10
O /U 41

Jake Delhomme played one of his worst games ever with 5 interceptions in the loss 33-11 against Arizona in the playoffs last season. In fact many people believe Delhomme hasn’t been the same since that loss and he hasn’t.

This year he has been intercepted 13 times (worst in the NFL) and he is up to face a Arizona passing defense that has improved a lot since their last meeting. The Arizona Cardinal secondary interceptEd Eli Manning 3 times in the win 24-17 over the Giants.

Cardinals also own the number one run defense but they will have their hands full against the Carolina RB duo of Williams and Stewart. In my opinion they are the Panthers only true option pull an upset, one of those two must let loose this Sunday in order of having any chance at winning.

"We have a good thing going with our defense as far as accountability and belief in each other," head coach Ken Whisenhunt said. "They are playing very fast and very physical and making plays."

Of course Carolina needs a big effort also on defense. They must handle a trio of receivers good enough to beat any secondary in the league, especially with Kurt Warner throwing the ball.

Expect the Carolina Panthers defense to play the cover and not to send any blitzes.

"Outside of the playoffs last year, we haven't had a lot of quality wins, wins against tough opponents, teams that are playing really well," quarterback Kurt Warner said. "Those are kind of statement games, where you gain confidence, and you feel like you can compete with anybody."

NFL Betting Tip: The Cardinals have lost five straight to Carolina in the regular season since a 16-13 road win in 2002. Keep in mind the total has gone UNDER in 5 of Arizona's last 6 games and it has gone OVER in 6 of Carolina's last 7 games on the road.

Last 5 head to head matchups

• Jan 10, 2009 CAR 13, @ARI 33
• Oct 26, 2008 CAR 27, @ARI 23
• Oct 14, 2007 CAR 25, ARI 10
• Oct 9, 2005 CAR 24, ARI 20
• Nov 21, 2004 CAR 35, @ARI 10

My pick: Cardinals will cover the spread.