The 2024 NFL season is kicking off with an intriguing matchup as the Buffalo Bills host the Arizona Cardinals this Sunday. Fans are eager to know where to watch the Arizona Cardinals vs Buffalo Bills game, and we’ve got you covered. While the Bills are aiming for their fifth consecutive AFC East title, the Cardinals are looking to bounce back after a couple of challenging seasons. This game, part of the early window of Sunday games, has the potential to be more competitive than some might expect.
Despite their recent record (8-26 in the last two seasons), the Arizona Cardinals possess significant offensive talent. In the unpredictable atmosphere of Week 1, upsets are common, making this game anything but a guaranteed win for Buffalo. The Bills themselves are entering a season of transition, and this opening game is their first opportunity to demonstrate the strength of their revamped roster.
Let’s delve into why this matchup is compelling and highlight the key players from the Bills that fans should be watching closely as they tune in to see where to watch the Arizona Cardinals vs Buffalo Bills.
Key Bills Players to Watch Against the Cardinals
To truly appreciate the Bills’ game plan and potential outcomes as you decide Where To Watch Arizona Cardinals Vs Buffalo Bills, keep an eye on these five pivotal players:
WR Keon Coleman
Our first player to watch isn’t necessarily projected as the leading receiver immediately, but rookie wide receiver Keon Coleman is generating significant buzz. The excitement surrounding this year’s top draft pick is palpable. While Khalil Shakir might start as the WR1 in Buffalo’s offense, Coleman’s performance is crucial for the team’s long-term success. A key question is whether Coleman can overcome the perception that he struggles against tight man coverage in the NFL. Will his physicality compensate for any perceived lack of initial burst? This first game offers a glimpse into the future of the Bills’ receiving corps. Expect the Bills to design plays specifically for Coleman early on, especially in the red zone, where his 6’3” frame and ability to win contested catches can be a major asset.
C Connor McGovern
One area of slight uncertainty for the Bills lies in the center position. After five seasons of consistent performance from Mitch Morse, the team opted for a change, moving Connor McGovern from left guard to center. With Josh Allen’s development, the need for a center to assist with blitz reads is less critical. However, questions remain about McGovern’s transition to this new role. How will he manage the physical demands of snapping the ball potentially 70 times a game? How smooth will the quarterback-center exchange be, particularly under center? Will shotgun snaps consistently allow Allen to get into his throwing motion seamlessly? These seemingly minor details can significantly impact the game’s flow and offensive efficiency. McGovern’s clean and consistent play is vital for the Bills’ offensive line to function optimally.
DE Von Miller
Veteran defensive end Von Miller carries perhaps the highest pressure to perform this season on the Bills roster. After returning last year from a 2022 ACL tear, Miller’s impact was minimal in 2023, recording only five tackles and three quarterback hits across 14 games, including playoff appearances. Miller is a potential game-changer for the Bills defense. If he can recapture his pre-injury form, the Bills will boast a formidable duo with Greg Rousseau on the defensive line. However, if he continues to underperform, his substantial $15 million cap hit becomes a heavy burden. While one game won’t definitively answer if Miller is back to his elite level, generating consistent pressure on Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray would be a significant positive sign and a major boost to the Bills’ defense.
LB Dorian Williams
With the unfortunate injury to Matt Milano, second-year linebacker Dorian Williams steps into a crucial role. Williams displayed flashes of potential last season, but opposing offenses often exploited his vulnerabilities in pass coverage. Facing Cardinals tight end Trey McBride in this opening game presents an immediate and significant challenge. Williams possesses the athleticism to make plays across the field, but his reading of plays and reaction time needs to improve to fully leverage his physical gifts. This game against the Cardinals will be an early and valuable test for Williams. If he can quickly adapt and elevate his play, it will greatly benefit the Bills defense in Milano’s absence.
S Damar Hamlin
Initially, safety Taylor Rapp was considered the player to watch at this position, primarily due to uncertainty about who would start alongside him. However, head coach Sean McDermott’s announcement that Damar Hamlin will start has shifted the focus. Hamlin’s journey back to the starting lineup is remarkable, especially considering his cardiac arrest and subsequent recovery. While injuries to rookie Cole Bishop and free-agent signing Mike Edwards have created an opportunity, Hamlin’s experience and familiarity with the system make him a reliable choice. This game represents a tremendous opportunity for Hamlin and a significant challenge against the Cardinals’ offensive weapons.
Finding Where to Watch Cardinals vs Bills
For fans wondering where to watch Arizona Cardinals vs Buffalo Bills, here are your options:
- Television Broadcast: The game is scheduled to be broadcast nationally on CBS. Check your local listings for the specific channel in your area.
- Streaming Services: For cord-cutters, several streaming services offer CBS, including:
- Paramount+: This is CBS’s streaming platform and a reliable option to watch live games.
- Hulu + Live TV: Includes CBS and other major networks.
- YouTube TV: Another service that carries CBS.
- FuboTV: A sports-centric streaming service with CBS.
- DirecTV Stream: Offers various packages that include CBS.
- NFL+: The NFL’s own streaming service offers live local and primetime games on mobile devices and tablets. While you might not be able to watch on your TV with NFL+, it’s a great option for fans on the go.
- NFL Game Pass (International): For fans outside of the US, NFL Game Pass International provides access to live games.
Ensure you check your local listings and streaming service availability to confirm where to watch Arizona Cardinals vs Buffalo Bills in your specific location.
Conclusion
The Buffalo Bills versus Arizona Cardinals game is shaping up to be an exciting start to the NFL season. Keep an eye on these key Bills players as they take the field. With multiple options available to fans wondering where to watch Arizona Cardinals vs Buffalo Bills, don’t miss the kickoff this Sunday! It’s the perfect opportunity to witness the Bills’ new-look roster and see if the Cardinals can start their season with a surprise.
