Arizona Cardinals vs. Oakland Raiders Betting Odds, Analysis, NFL Pick

After losing two weeks ago at Denver, the Arizona Cardinals are now 0-7 straight up and 1-6 against the spread in their last seven games playing at AFC West stadiums. But these 4-1 Cardinals aren't the same team that started that trend several seasons ago. This edition of the Arizona team will work on improving those marks when it visits Oakland to take on the 0-5 Raiders Sunday afternoon.

Point spread: Cardinals opened as four-point favorites; the total was 44 early in the week, according to sportsbooks monitored by Odds Shark (line updates and matchup report).

NFL pick, via Odds Shark computer: 27.3-10.9 Cardinals

Why the Cardinals can cover the spread

The Cardinals are 4-1 SU, 3-2 ATS, after beating Washington last week 30-20. Quarterback Carson Palmer returned after missing three games with a sore shoulder to throw two touchdown passes and zero interceptions, and his 28 completions kept the chains moving as Arizona won time of possession by a 34-26 margin.

The Cardinals defense then iced the victory with an interception return for a touchdown, delighting Arizona's financial backers. Offensively the Cardinals are sputtering, but Carson's return could help; defensively Arizona ranks third against the run and 10th in points allowed, at 21 per game.

Why the Raiders can cover the spread

The Raiders are winless on the season but 3-2 ATS after losing to San Diego last week, 31-28, while covering as seven-point home dogs. Oakland led the Chargers by a touchdown with 10 minutes to go but let victory slip away. Still, it was probably Oakland's best effort of the season.

Running back Darren McFadden had his best day of the season, with 80 yards on 14 carries, and rookie quarterback Derek Carr threw for 282 yards and four touchdowns. Most importantly, the Raiders played hard in their first game under interim head coach Tony Sparano.

Smart pick

Arizona has been a moneymaker on the road lately, going 5-5 SU and 7-3 ATS over its last 10 road contests. And Palmer will be looking for a good game against his former team. Oakland won't go winless this season, but it won't get that first win this week. The smart money here goes on the team with the better defense, the Cardinals.

Betting trends

• Arizona is 4-1 SU in its last five games
• Oakland is 1-6 ATS in its last seven games at home

Note: All spread and odds data powered by Odds Shark—follow on Twitter for injury updates and line move updates.