The NFC West is shaping up to be one of the more unpredictable divisions this season, and the upcoming clash between the Seattle Seahawks and the Arizona Cardinals could be pivotal. Both teams enter this contest at 2-1, and each is looking to build momentum early in the year. With a closely set line and plenty of storylines around injuries, defense, and offensive execution, this game offers plenty to analyze. Let’s break it down in detail.
Seattle Seahawks: Recent Performance and Key Factors
The Seahawks have started the season strong, sitting at 2-1 with a balanced attack on both sides of the ball. Offensively, they rank 18th overall, averaging 315 total yards per game. Their production comes from 226 passing yards (13th in the league) and 96 rushing yards (21st). While the run game is still developing, Kenneth Walker III has been reliable, recording 163 yards and 3 touchdowns through just 39 carries.
Defensively, Seattle has been even more impressive. They are 14th overall, allowing just over 311 total yards per game. The rush defense stands out, ranking 7th in the league at 90 yards allowed per game. That could be crucial against an Arizona team that has leaned on its ground game early in the season. The pass defense ranks 19th, but with Arizona struggling in the air, Seattle’s secondary should hold up fine.
Injury-wise, the Seahawks have concerns with running back Zach Charbonnet (foot), safety Nick Emmanwori (ankle), linebacker Boye Mafe (toe), and offensive tackle Josh Jones (ankle). Still, they have enough depth at key positions to manage effectively.
Arizona Cardinals: Recent Performance and Key Factors
The Cardinals also sit at 2-1, but their offensive output has been less efficient compared to Seattle. Arizona ranks 25th in total offense, averaging 276 yards per game. Their passing attack is struggling, ranked 27th at just 180.7 yards per game. The ground game has been a brighter spot, ranked 16th with 111 rushing yards per game, but this week’s loss of running back James Conner (foot injury) significantly impacts that strength.
Defensively, Arizona is a mixed bag. The run defense has been excellent, ranked 4th overall with just 76.3 rushing yards allowed per game. However, their pass defense is one of the league’s worst, ranked 31st at 275.3 yards allowed per game. That imbalance could be problematic against Seattle’s passing attack led by Sam Darnold, who has thrown for 663 yards and 4 touchdowns with only 2 interceptions this year.
Injuries have hit the Cardinals harder than the Seahawks. James Conner is out, defensive tackle Walter Nolen (calf) will miss the game, cornerback Will Johnson (groin) is sidelined, and linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither (elbow) adds further depth concerns. These absences weaken Arizona both offensively and defensively.
Why the Under 43.5 Total Looks Strong
While many expect divisional games to produce plenty of points, this matchup sets up differently. Several factors point toward a lower-scoring outcome:
- Arizona’s Offensive Limitations: Without James Conner, the Cardinals lose their most consistent rushing weapon. That puts more pressure on Kyler Murray to carry the offense, but against Seattle’s top-10 run defense and middle-tier pass defense, consistent drives will be harder to sustain.
- Seattle’s Defensive Strength: The Seahawks allow just 311.7 yards per game. Their run defense (90 yards per game) is strong enough to neutralize what remains of Arizona’s ground game, and they have the secondary talent to contain Murray’s passing options.
- Arizona’s Defensive Matchup: The Cardinals may struggle against the pass, but their run defense is elite (4th overall). If they can at least contain Kenneth Walker III, Seattle’s offense may not completely explode either.
- Pace of Play: Both teams are middle of the pack in terms of offensive tempo. Without explosive plays and with more defensive resistance in key areas, long drives are likely to result in field goals rather than touchdowns.
- Historical Trends: Seattle has won seven straight games against Arizona, but many of those matchups have been close and relatively low-scoring. Familiarity within the division tends to tighten scoring margins.
Score Predictions from Reputable Models
To get a wider perspective, here are predictions from five trusted sources:
- FiveThirtyEight: Seahawks 24, Cardinals 17
- ESPN FPI: Seahawks 23, Cardinals 16
- Action Network: Seahawks 21, Cardinals 20
- TeamRankings: Seahawks 22, Cardinals 18
- Massey Ratings: Seahawks 23, Cardinals 19
All five models point toward a Seahawks victory with totals landing between 37 and 44 points, reinforcing the Under 43.5 projection.
Projected Final Score
After weighing the stats, injuries, and model projections, the expected outcome is:
Seattle Seahawks 23 – Arizona Cardinals 17
This aligns closely with most external models and reflects the matchup issues for Arizona without James Conner and with their secondary vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The Seahawks-Cardinals game offers plenty of intrigue, with both teams sitting at 2-1 and looking to make a statement in the NFC West. Seattle brings more balance on both sides of the ball, while Arizona faces uphill challenges with injuries and offensive inefficiency.
Expect Seattle’s defensive front to play a major role in slowing Arizona, while Sam Darnold should take advantage of a vulnerable secondary. Scoring should stay moderate, with both teams facing resistance that keeps the game from turning into a high-scoring affair.
Look for Seattle to continue their recent dominance over Arizona and for the total points to finish under expectations. The matchup highlights strength versus weakness on both sides, making this a fascinating contest to follow for divisional implications and team development moving forward.
My pick: under 43.5 total runs WIN
