Dallas Cowboys vs Arizona Cardinals Picks and Prediction for Saturday August 22 2026

The Dallas Cowboys (1-0) face off against the Arizona Cardinals (1-1) at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona in this week two preseason matchup. Get involved in the action with our free NFL picks.

Dallas vs. Arizona Game Information

• August 22, 2026
• 10:00 PM EST
• State Farm Stadium
• NFL Network

Arizona Form & Recent Results

Arizona enters this Week 2 preseason matchup after splitting its first two games, giving the team both positives to build on and areas to keep improving. The Cardinals looked strong in their 27-14 road win over the Las Vegas Raiders, especially on offense. Quarterback Gardner Minshew II had an efficient performance, completing 14 of his 16 passes and throwing for two touchdowns. Arizona finished the game with 368 total yards, 23 first downs, and no turnovers, which showed good discipline and execution. The Cardinals were also effective in key situations, going 8-for-15 on third down, converting their only fourth-down attempt, and finishing 3-for-4 in the red zone.

Several players also stood out in the win for Arizona. Running back Corey Kiner led the ground game with 59 rushing yards, while wide receiver Jalen Brooks made an impact through the air with 52 receiving yards. On defense, linebacker Karson Sharar led the team with 5 tackles. Even with that encouraging preseason performance, Arizona is still trying to move past a very difficult finish to last season. Over their final five games, the Cardinals allowed an average of 37 points per game, and they ended the year on a nine-game losing streak with a 3-14 record. Because of that, this preseason is important for Arizona as they try to build confidence, fix defensive issues, and set the tone for a much stronger season.

Dallas Form & Recent Results

Dallas comes into this matchup with some early preseason momentum after opening with a win. The Cowboys went on the road and beat Seattle 17-7, putting together a solid all-around performance on both sides of the ball. Quarterback Joe Milton III was efficient under center, completing 12 of his 15 pass attempts and throwing for a touchdown. As a team, Dallas finished the game with 338 total yards of offense and moved the chains consistently, picking up 21 first downs. The Cowboys were especially strong on third down, converting 11 of their 15 opportunities, though they went just 1-for-2 when they reached the red zone.

Running back Malik Davis contributed 39 rushing yards for the Cowboys, while wide receiver Camden Brown led the passing attack with 62 receiving yards. On defense, linebacker Curtis Robinson made his presence felt with a team-high 9 tackles. After allowing an average of 33.8 points per game and finishing last season with a disappointing 7-9-1 record, the Cowboys are looking to take a clear step forward. Dallas will be hoping this preseason opener is a sign of better things to come as they try to become a more serious contender in the NFC East this year.

Key Stats

• Dallas’ George Pickens last season: 1,429 receiving yards, 9 TDs
• Arizona’s Trey McBride last season: 1,239 receiving yards, 11 TDs

Betting Odds & Market Overview:

• ARI -1.5; O/U 37.5

Dallas vs. Arizona Picks and Prediction

The Cowboys aren’t just trying to get back on track and secure a playoff spot, they’re hoping to build momentum for a deeper postseason push. That said, they know they can’t afford to look too far ahead. Their focus first has to be on taking care of business in Glendale against the Cardinals. Arizona, meanwhile, has had a frustrating season and is simply searching for something positive to build on. A strong performance against Dallas would give the Cardinals a much-needed spark and a reason to feel a little more optimistic moving forward. Final Score Prediction, Arizona Cardinals win and cover the spread, 32-27.