GLENDALE, Ariz. (Interstat) — Two teams playing out the string will meet Sunday when the Atlanta Falcons visit the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium, though both are coming off starkly different recent performances. The Falcons (5-9) arrive with a flicker of momentum after a dramatic 29-28 road victory over Tampa Bay on Dec. 11. Quarterback Kirk Cousins engineered a game-winning drive, finishing 30 of 44 for 373 yards and three touchdowns. Running back Bijan Robinson was dynamic, combining for 175 yards from scrimmage and a score. Conversely, the Cardinals (3-11) are mired in an eight-game losing streak, most recently a 40-20 defeat in Houston. Despite the losses, veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett has been a bright spot, accounting for 12 touchdowns (8 passing, 4 rushing) over the last four games. His dual-threat ability presents a unique challenge for Atlanta’s defense. Cousins has been inconsistent for Atlanta, following his stellar performance against Tampa Bay with a 15-for-30, 162-yard outing in a 37-9 loss to Seattle. His matchup against a porous Arizona secondary, which ranks near the bottom of the league, could dictate Atlanta’s success. While team records suggest a matchup of struggling franchises, statistical projections anticipate a competitive game. National Statistical’s simulator projects a 30-22 Arizona victory. Oddsmakers have installed the Cardinals as a 3-point favorite, with an over/under of 48.5. The game may hinge on which defense can muster a stop. Atlanta allows 24.6 points per game, while Arizona surrenders a league-worst 29.9 points per contest. The Cardinals’ run defense, particularly, has been vulnerable, which could lead to a heavy workload for Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. For Arizona, ending the prolonged skid at home before a holiday crowd is the sole objective. For Atlanta, building on their last win is crucial ahead of a closing stretch against NFC South rivals. Kickoff is set for 2:05 p.m. MST Sunday.