Rams-Cardinals best bets: Can Arizona complete season sweep?

If the Arizona Cardinals win on Monday, they'd move three games clear in the NFC West and have the tiebreaker over the chasing Los Angeles Rams. This is essentially a must-win for Sean McVay's team to keep their division hopes alive.

Here's how we're betting Rams-Cardinals:

C Jackson Cowart: Stafford longest completion over 37.5 yards

It's been a rough stretch as of late for Stafford, who's thrown five interceptions in the last four weeks amid a 1-3 stretch for the Rams. What hasn't faltered is Los Angeles' deep passing game, which will surely be an emphasis against a division rival.

Entering Week 14, Stafford ranks second in the league in yards per completion (12.4) and in the top three for intended air yards (3,790) and completed air yards (1,989). He's uncorked a pass of at least 40 yards in two straight games and eight of his 12 games this season - and he recorded a completion of at least 30 yards in three of those other four games.

This line seems to be shaded against Stafford because of his overall struggles, not because of his issues downfield. With another week of chemistry with Odell Beckham and a continued connection with star receiver Cooper Kupp, expect one of those two - or tertiary threat Van Jefferson - to haul in a deep pass on Monday.

Alex Moretto: Under 51.5

This definitely won't be a fun under to watch given the star power of these offenses, and the game could absolutely turn into a track meet under the right circumstances - and the total reflects that. However, it doesn't reflect the talent of the defenses, and there's a case to be made that they are the best two units in the NFL.

The scores haven't flattered the Rams over the last four weeks, but that's largely been a product of short fields and turnovers - not the defense. In the last four games, the Rams have allowed just 4.4 yards per play, bringing their season total down to 5.1 (fourth-best in the league). Meanwhile, the Cardinals have allowed just 4.7 yards per play over their last six games, dropping their season total to 5.2 (sixth-best).

I expect both teams to try and establish themselves here via the ground game with so much at stake. They'll look to control possession, keep the opposing offense on the sidelines, and keep their defenses fresh. With a run-heavy approach and both teams playing particularly well defensively, this rematch is going to look a lot different than the season's first meeting in L.A.

Matt Russell: Rams +2.5

I'm hoping to get +3 as time passes on Monday, especially since sportsbooks will have a fair amount of parlay liability tied to the Cardinals at such a short price after just about every favorite covered on Sunday. This has been one of those weeks where season-long losers get rejuvenated.

While they will be a popular play, the line did come off of Cardinals -3, as it was deemed too much of an adjustment following their September matchup with the Rams. While the Cardinals won that game handily and have the better record, oddsmakers still have these teams rated evenly.

The Cardinals won't be the beneficiaries of the turnovers that were provided last week, so if I see the Rams +3 back on the menu Monday, I'll play it.

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