Full Breakdown
Raiders and Cardinals Clash in Preseason Finale
8/24/2025, 8:43:34 PM
Game Overview: Raiders vs. Cardinals
The Las Vegas Raiders will face the Arizona Cardinals in their final preseason game on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. The kickoff is scheduled for 10:00 PM ET, with national coverage on the NFL Network. Local broadcasts will be available on FOX5 in Las Vegas and CBS 5 in Phoenix. Fans can also stream the game through services like FuboTV, DirecTV, and NFL+.
Team Performance and Expectations
Both teams enter this matchup with mixed preseason results. The Raiders are currently 0-1-1, having tied their opener against the Seattle Seahawks and lost to the San Francisco 49ers 22-19. The Cardinals, on the other hand, have a record of 1-1, winning their first game against the Kansas City Chiefs but suffering a 27-7 defeat to the Denver Broncos in their last outing.
The Raiders are looking to improve their performance, particularly on defense, where they have struggled to contain opposing offenses. Head coach Pete Carroll has emphasized the importance of execution and discipline, especially as the team prepares for the regular season. Carroll indicated that while some starters may see limited action, the focus will be on evaluating depth players.
Key Players to Watch
For the Raiders, rookie running back Ashton Jeanty, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, is expected to be rested to avoid injury. Jeanty had a strong showing in the previous game, rushing for 33 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Aidan O'Connell will likely see significant playing time as he competes for a backup role against rookie Cam Miller, who is also vying for a spot on the roster.
The Cardinals will rest their starters, including quarterback Kyler Murray and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., as they focus on evaluating their depth. Veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett is expected to lead the offense, providing stability as younger players compete for roster spots.
Coaching Strategies and Roster Implications
Both teams approach this game with different strategies. The Cardinals, under head coach Jonathan Gannon, aim to assess their depth and prepare for final roster cuts. Gannon has confirmed that key starters will not play, allowing backups to showcase their abilities.
In contrast, Carroll's Raiders plan to have some starters participate, albeit briefly. Carroll's focus is on ensuring that players understand the significance of their performance, stating, “I want to see them go out knowing that there’s a lot on the line, and play like they’re capable.”
Betting Odds and Predictions
The Raiders are favored to win, with a spread of -2.5 points. The over/under for the game is set at 37.5 points. Analysts suggest that the outcome may hinge on the performance of the backup quarterbacks, with O'Connell and Miller needing to prove their worth against Brissett and the Cardinals' second-string players.
Conclusion: A Game of Evaluation
While the final score may not impact playoff standings, the Raiders vs. Cardinals matchup carries significant weight for players fighting for roster spots. With both teams focusing on depth evaluation, this game serves as a critical opportunity for many to secure their futures in the NFL. The game kicks off at 10 PM ET, promising a night of competitive football as both teams finalize their preparations for the upcoming season.
