Cardinals vs Cowboys Prediction & Betting Tips for NFL Preseason Week 2 on 8/22/2026

The Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals are set to face off in Week 2 of the 2026 preseason. The game will be played at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, with a retractable roof providing comfort against the Arizona heat. Scheduled for Saturday, August 22 at 10:00 PM, fans can catch the action live on NFL Network.

Under the leadership of head coach Brian Schottenheimer, the Dallas Cowboys enter this game with a 1-0 record in the preseason. They recently secured a win against the Seattle Seahawks, finishing 17-7. With Klayton Adams as their offensive coordinator and Christian Parker in charge of defense, the Cowboys aim to continue their strong start.

On the other side, the Arizona Cardinals, led by head coach Mike LaFleur, have an even 1-1 preseason record. After a win against the Las Vegas Raiders and a loss to the Carolina Panthers, the Cardinals are looking to improve their performance at home. Offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett and defensive coordinator Nick Rallis play pivotal roles in shaping their strategies.

Current betting odds slightly favor the Cardinals, with a moneyline of -127 compared to the Cowboys' +107. The spread is set at -1.5 for the Cardinals and +1.5 for the Cowboys, with the total over/under at 37.5. This preseason encounter will provide valuable insights into both teams' potential for the upcoming regular season.

Cardinals vs Cowboys At a Glance (Preseason Week 2)

• The game is scheduled for 2026 Preseason Week 2.
• Dallas Cowboys come into the game with a preseason record of 1-0-0.
• Arizona Cardinals hold a preseason record of 1-1-0.
• State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ will host the game.
• The game will be broadcast on NFLN on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 10:00 PM.
• Consensus odds favor Arizona Cardinals with a moneyline of -127.

Cardinals Ready to Shine: Arizona Cardinals Preseason Game Preview

Offensive Powerhouse

The Arizona Cardinals have showcased an impressive offensive performance in the 2026 preseason, leading the league with 57 points and averaging 28.5 points per game. They rank first in total offensive yards with 793, averaging 396.5 yards per game. Their passing attack, contributing 494 yards, ranks first, while their rushing game is also strong, with 299 yards ranked first.

The Cardinals' efficient offensive play is reflected in their first downs, ranking first with 46, and an outstanding third-down conversion rate of 55.6%, placing them second. This offensive prowess will be crucial as they face the Dallas Cowboys at home.

Defensive Improvements

Defensively, the Cardinals have made strides this preseason, ranking 11th by allowing 23.5 points per game. However, they must tighten their defense against the pass, as they rank 31st in opponent passing yards. Their rushing defense shows promise, ranking 21st in opponent rushing yards with 122 yards per game.

With three sacks ranking third, their ability to pressure the quarterback will be a key factor in their defensive strategy. The defense has yet to record an interception this preseason, an area they will aim to improve against the Cowboys.

Key Players to Watch

Gardner Minshew II has been a standout at quarterback, completing 14 passes for 101 yards and two touchdowns in his preseason appearance. At wide receiver, Jalen Brooks is making his presence felt with nine receptions for 151 yards and a touchdown. Running back Corey Kiner has contributed significantly with 116 rushing yards and one touchdown.

On the defensive side, Walter Nolen III is a key player, already recording a sack this preseason. The Cardinals will rely on his ability to disrupt the Cowboys' offensive line.

Injury Concerns

The Cardinals are dealing with several injuries that could impact their lineup. Josh Sweat, Kenny Yeboah, and Joey Blount are among those on the injured reserve list and will miss the 2026-27 season. The team will need to make adjustments, particularly at tight end and linebacker positions.

Garrett Williams and Tip Reiman are also on the physically unable to perform list, adding to the team's injury challenges. Depth and adaptability will be crucial in overcoming these absences.

Betting Trends

• Cardinals are 3-0 against the spread after a loss in the last three preseason games.
• The over has hit in 5 of the last 6 regular-season home games for the Cardinals.
• In all regular-season games, the Cardinals have a 9-4 over/under record in their last 13 games.
• Cardinals have won 2 of their last 3 preseason games outright.
• As home favorites, the Cardinals have a 2-1 record in their last 3 preseason games.

The Dallas Cowboys: A Preseason Powerhouse on the Road

Quarterback Analysis

Joe Milton III showcased his talent in the Cowboys' preseason opener with 107 passing yards and a touchdown. His precision and leadership on the field make him a key player to watch as he continues to develop into a reliable quarterback option. With Dak Prescott leading the depth chart, the Cowboys have a solid quarterback lineup heading into their next game.

Sam Howell also put on a strong performance with 94 passing yards and a touchdown in the preseason opener. Howell's ability to make quick decisions under pressure adds depth to the Cowboys' quarterback room. His continued growth is critical as the Cowboys seek to maintain a strong passing attack.

Running Back Depth

Malik Davis led the rushing attack with 39 yards in the preseason opener, showing his potential as a versatile back. His performance will be essential in supporting the Cowboys' ground game. The depth chart also includes Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah, who offer additional options in the running game.

Jaydon Blue, with 19 rushing yards and 15 receiving yards, provides a dual-threat option out of the backfield. His ability to contribute both on the ground and through the air is valuable for the Cowboys. Phil Mafah adds further depth, ensuring the team has a variety of rushing styles to employ.

Wide Receiver Standouts

Camden Brown made an impressive start to the preseason with three receptions for 62 yards and two touchdowns. His connection with the quarterbacks is promising as the Cowboys look to establish a dynamic receiving corps. Anthony Smith and Tyler Johnson also contributed valuable yards, enhancing the receiving depth.

CeeDee Lamb remains the top receiver, with a proven track record of making big plays when it matters most. Lamb's presence on the field draws attention and opens up opportunities for his teammates. Jonathan Mingo and Jordan Hudson add additional layers to the Cowboys' aerial attack.

Team Betting Trends

• The Cowboys have gone 7-0 in the Over/Under in their last seven preseason home games.
• In the regular season, they achieved a 7-0 Over/Under in away games in 2025.
• The Cowboys are 3-0 straight up as preseason underdogs since 2023.
• Against the spread, they are 3-0 as underdogs in the last three preseason games.
• In games with totals less than or equal to 42 points, they are 4-1 in their last five preseason outings.

Cardinals vs Cowboys Prediction: Under 37.5

The Arizona Cardinals face the Dallas Cowboys in a preseason game where the total is set at 37.5. Historically, games between these two teams have often gone under this mark, as seen in their recent head-to-head matchups. With it being preseason, teams might prioritize evaluating players over offensive fireworks.

The Dallas Cowboys' defense has been exceptional in the preseason, allowing only 7 points and leading in several defensive categories. Meanwhile, the Cardinals' defense has been solid, ranking 11th in opponent scoring with 23.5 points allowed per game this preseason. These strong defensive performances suggest a low-scoring affair.

Considering the Cowboys' average scoring of 17 points per game this preseason and the Cardinals' 28.5 points, both teams would need to hit the high end of their averages to surpass the total. However, preseason games often see scoring dips due to player rotations and strategic evaluations.

Therefore, with the emphasis on defense and player evaluations in this preseason contest, the total should stay under 37.5. A projected scoreline of Cowboys 17 - Cardinals 14 seems plausible, aligning with historical and current season data trends.

• Cardinals vs Cowboys Prediction: Under 37.5
• Cardinals vs Cowboys Score: Cowboys 17 - Cardinals 14

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