The Arizona Cardinals' Uphill Battle: Long Odds for Division Win, Shorter for Playoffs

As we approach the 2023 training camp, the Arizona Cardinals are not exactly the talk of the town. The general consensus is that they are unlikely to make a significant impact this season. This perception is reflected in their odds to win the NFC West division and to make the playoffs, as provided by DraftKings Sportsbook.

The Odds Game

Initially, the Cardinals were given +1400 odds to win the NFC West at the start of the 2023 offseason. However, these odds lengthened to +2200 following the commencement of free agency, and have since adjusted to +2000. This shift is hardly surprising considering the formidable San Francisco 49ers, favorites in the entire NFC, share the same division.

Playoff Prospects

Interestingly, the Cardinals' odds to make the playoffs are shorter than their odds to win the division. They opened with playoff odds of +1100, the longest in the NFL, but still shorter than their division-winning odds. This discrepancy might seem surprising at first glance, but it's worth noting that making the playoffs doesn't necessarily require winning the division.

The Unpredictable NFC

The NFC landscape is riddled with uncertainties, with only the San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles expected to perform exceptionally well. This unpredictability could potentially work in favor of the Cardinals, providing them with opportunities to defy expectations and secure a playoff spot.

Conclusion

While the Arizona Cardinals face long odds to win their division, their chances of making the playoffs are somewhat brighter. Despite the skepticism surrounding their prospects, the unpredictable nature of the NFC could provide them with an unexpected edge. As the 2023 season unfolds, it will be interesting to see if the Cardinals can rise above the odds and make their mark