Arizona Cardinals vs Seattle Seahawks Picks and Predictions December 8th 2024

Seahawks Head to Arizona on Stay-Ahead Mission in Division Race

The Seattle Seahawks visit the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday in a pivotal NFC West matchup, with both teams vying for control of the division.

Seahawks Aim to Stay Hot

Seattle (7-5) has surged to the top of the NFC West after winning three straight games, including a 16-6 victory over the Cardinals on Nov. 24. Defensive standouts have been key, particularly Leonard “Big Cat” Williams, who has delivered dominant performances over the past two weeks.

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In last Sunday’s 26-21 win against the New York Jets, Williams recorded two sacks, three tackles for loss, a blocked extra point, and a historic 92-yard pick-six. His efforts earned him NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors.

“He’s just playing at an all-time elite level,” Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald said. “He’s playing out of his mind right now.”

Seattle’s defense has powered the team through ups and downs, and Williams’ contributions could be pivotal again in Arizona.

Special Teams Questions

While the Seahawks’ defense has excelled, special teams have struggled. Last week, the team allowed a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown and fumbled three kickoffs, losing two. Additionally, punter Michael Dickson missed part of the game with back spasms but may return Sunday.

Seattle released returner Laviska Shenault Jr., leaving roles in both punt and kickoff return unsettled. Veterans like Tyler Lockett and rookie Dee Williams may step in to stabilize the unit.

Cardinals Look to Bounce Back

Arizona (6-6) enters the game after back-to-back losses, including a narrow 23-22 defeat at Minnesota last Sunday. Despite leading for much of the game, the Cardinals faltered late, with penalties and red-zone struggles proving costly.

Quarterback Kyler Murray threw two late interceptions, and the team managed just one touchdown while settling for five field goals.

“We moved the ball well,” Murray said. “But it comes down to not scoring touchdowns and penalties biting us. It’s bad — it’s bad football.”

Coach Jonathan Gannon echoed the frustration but urged focus on the upcoming matchup.

Key Matchups

1. Leonard Williams vs. Cardinals’ Offensive Line
   Williams terrorized Arizona in their first meeting with 2.5 sacks and four quarterback hits on Murray. Protecting their quarterback will be a top priority for the Cardinals.
2. Trey McBride vs. Seahawks’ Secondary
   Tight end Trey McBride has been a bright spot for Arizona, hauling in 12 catches in back-to-back games, including 12-133 against Seattle last month. Stopping him could disrupt Murray’s rhythm.
3. Seattle’s Rushing Attack vs. Arizona’s Defense
   With Seattle boasting depth in its backfield, the Cardinals will need to shore up their run defense to limit big plays.

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Injury Report

• Seahawks: Leonard Williams (foot) and right tackle Abe Lucas (knee) were limited but expected to play. Punter Michael Dickson (back) is likely to suit up. Linebacker Uchenna Nwosu (thigh) could return from injured reserve.
• Cardinals: Defensive linemen Darius Robinson (calf) and Dante Stills (back) were limited, but no players missed practice.

What’s at Stake

With the NFC West race tightening, Sunday’s game carries significant implications. A win would solidify Seattle’s division lead, while Arizona seeks to reclaim momentum and avoid a third straight loss.

Outlook

The Seahawks come in with momentum and a defense playing at an elite level. However, Arizona’s home-field advantage and Murray’s ability to extend plays make this a challenging contest. Expect a physical, closely contested battle as both teams fight to stay in the playoff hunt.