The Arizona Cardinals are heading into a high-stakes clash against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field in Week 12. With the Cardinals leading the NFC West at 6-4, this game holds immense playoff implications. A Seahawks win would create a logjam at the top of the division, as every other team sits at 5-5. Here’s a closer look at the key questions shaping this pivotal matchup:
1. The State of the Seahawks at 5-5
Seattle is riding high after a significant win against the San Francisco 49ers following their bye week. That victory has reignited confidence in a team eager to prove itself in a division-wide dogfight. According to Seahawks on SI’s Jeremy Brener, the energy in Seattle’s camp is palpable, and they know how vital this game is in the quest for playoff positioning.
2. Seattle’s Potent Passing Game
The Seahawks boast one of the NFL’s top aerial attacks. Geno Smith has a wealth of options, with Jaxon Smith-Njigba stepping up in his second season, DK Metcalf continuing to dominate, and Tyler Lockett offering reliable hands. Arizona’s defense faces a daunting task trying to limit this dynamic receiving corps.
3. Defending Against James Conner
Seattle’s Achilles’ heel this season has been their run defense. James Conner, enjoying a career-best season, is the Cardinals’ offensive catalyst. Stopping Conner is paramount for Seattle. When Conner thrives, Arizona typically comes out on top; shutting him down will be crucial to Seattle’s success.
4. Key Matchup: Seahawks O-Line vs. Cardinals D-Line
The battle in the trenches will likely determine the outcome. Seattle’s offensive line has been inconsistent, leaving Geno Smith vulnerable at times. If Arizona’s defensive front can pressure Smith and disrupt Seattle’s passing game, the Cardinals could gain the upper hand. Conversely, if the Seahawks provide Smith with enough protection, their offense could light up the scoreboard.
5. Prediction: Seahawks Have the Edge at Home
Jeremy Brener predicts a narrow 24-20 victory for Seattle, largely due to their home-field advantage. However, he also sees this matchup as part of a likely two-game split, with the teams meeting again in Glendale in two weeks.
With so much on the line, this NFC West showdown promises to deliver high drama and could set the tone for the division race down the stretch. Will Arizona solidify their lead, or will Seattle close the gap and turn the division into a four-team free-for-all? Stay tuned.
