Patriots at Cardinals: MNF Preview, Prop Picks, Prediction

Kyler Murray and the Arizona Cardinals are in desperation mode as they entertain the New England Patriots on Monday night at Glendale, Ariz. The Cardinals (4-8) sit three games behind the NFC's final playoff spot with five contests remaining, and only the Chicago Bears have fewer victories in the conference. Coming off its bye, Arizona has lost two straight games and six of its past eight. The Patriots (6-6) also have lost two straight games and are experiencing issues of their own. New England is on the outside of the playoff chase, sitting one game behind the New York Jets and Los Angles Chargers for the final AFC wild-card spot. The Patriots are consensus 2.5-point favorites. The line opened at 1.5 at BetMGM but shifted, with New England backed by 56 percent of the spread bets and 67 percent of the money. The action was a bit more split at DraftKings, with the Patriots drawing 51 and 54 percent, respectively. But the Cardinals have been more popular at BetRivers, backed by 54 percent of the spread tickets and 56 percent of the money. PROP PICKS Patriots RB Rhamondre Stevenson Anytime TD (-167 at BetRivers): This player prop has drawn the most tickets and money at the sportsbook. Stevenson has a modest five total touchdowns this season and hasn't reached the end zone since a touchdown reception in Week 9. However, he is the unquestioned workhorse in the Patriots' backfield, averaging 20 touches over the past eight games, and Arizona enters with the league's 21st-ranked defense. Over 44 Total Points (-110 at all three sportsbooks): Both starting quarterbacks have drawn their share of criticism during generally disappointing seasons. However, Arizona's past six games have all hit the Over, and the line moved from opening at 43.5 points at BetMGM and BetRivers. Cardinals WR DeAndre Hopkins Anytime TD (+120 at DraftKings): This is a great example of searching for the best odds, as the same prop is being offered at -105 at BetMGM. Hopkins has three touchdowns while averaging 10.7 targets and 8.2 catches in six games since being reinstated from his suspension. New England does have a solid pass defense that ranks ninth, allowing an average of 200.6 yards per game. INJURY REPORT Patriots: Wide receiver Jakobi Meyers (concussion) was ruled out Saturday as was cornerback Jalen Mills (groin) and offensive tackle Isaiah Wynn (foot). Running back Damien Harris (thigh) is doubtful and offensive tackles Trent Brown (illness) and Yodny Cajuste (calf, back) are questionable. Cardinals: Cornerback Byron Murphy (back), receiver Rondale Moore (groin) and guard Rashaad Coward (chest) will miss the game. Defensive end Zach Allen (illness) and defensive back Charles Washington (chest) are questionable. PREDICTION While the Cardinals are technically still alive in the NFC playoff picture, they're more than likely playing out the string for a head coach firmly on the hot seat. The Patriots need their beleaguered offense to find some rhythm as New England faces a tough closing stretch that includes Cincinnati, Miami and Buffalo. -- Patriots 24, Cardinals 21 --Field Level Media