The Week 3 matchup between the Detroit Lions and Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium promises to be an intriguing contest. Both teams are coming off 1-1 starts and are eager to solidify their footing early in the season. Detroit’s offense, led by Jared Goff, has been productive but inconsistent. In Week 2, the Lions fell to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20-16 despite amassing 463 total yards. Goff threw for 307 yards but was intercepted twice, and while Amon-Ra St. Brown shined with 119 receiving yards, Detroit struggled to convert key opportunities in the red zone. The Cardinals, meanwhile, rebounded from a tough Week 1 loss to the Buffalo Bills with a commanding 41-10 victory over the Los Angeles Rams. Arizona’s offense was in top form, with quarterback Kyler Murray throwing for 266 yards and three touchdowns.

The Cardinals’ ground game, spearheaded by James Conner, has been particularly strong, averaging 177.5 rushing yards per game. Conner has been a consistent force, and his ability to wear down defenses could be a critical factor in this matchup. Defensively, Arizona limited the Rams to just 245 total yards, showcasing an ability to control the pace of the game. The Lions will need to rely on their own run game, led by David Montgomery, who has rushed for 126 yards and two touchdowns so far this season. Detroit’s defense, which is allowing 20 points per game, will face a tough test in containing Murray and Conner. This game is likely to come down to which team can execute better in the red zone and avoid turnovers. If Goff can minimize mistakes and the Lions’ defense can limit Arizona’s explosive plays, Detroit could escape with a close win. However, the Cardinals’ home-field advantage and strong recent performances in September could give them the edge.