First place in the NFC West will be up for grabs when the Arizona Cardinals travel to face the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Over 47.5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Cardinals vs. Seahawks
Sunday, November 24, 2024 – 04:25 PM ET at Lumen Field
Arizona’s Dominance Over New York
The Cardinals extended their win streak to four games in emphatic fashion with a 31-6 rout of the New York Jets. Kyler Murray delivered another masterful performance, throwing for 266 yards and a touchdown while adding two rushing scores. Arizona’s offense overwhelmed the Jets’ second-ranked pass defense, scoring touchdowns on four of their first five drives.
Murray’s pinpoint accuracy was on full display, completing 22 of 24 passes, including a franchise-record 17 consecutive completions. His distribution of the ball was seamless, involving James Conner, Marvin Harrison Jr., Trey McBride, and Michael Wilson, with Conner contributing 80 yards on five catches and Harrison Jr. recording his sixth touchdown of the season.
Arizona’s defense continued to shine, holding the Jets without a touchdown for the third straight home game. At halftime, the Cardinals had already built a commanding 24-6 lead, outgaining New York 239-85 in total yards. Murray’s first-half performance alone featured 199 yards on 17-of-19 passing, while kicker Chad Ryland added a 37-yard field goal to close the half.
Seattle’s Dramatic Win Over San Francisco
The Seahawks claimed a crucial 20-17 victory over the 49ers behind Geno Smith’s late-game heroics. With just over two minutes remaining, Smith orchestrated a game-winning drive, completing 7-of-8 passes for 65 yards before scrambling for a 13-yard touchdown to seal the win.
Smith’s efficient outing included 221 passing yards on 25-of-32 attempts, one interception, and the decisive rushing touchdown. Jaxon Smith-Njigba emerged as a key target, hauling in 10 catches for 110 yards, while Kenneth Walker III contributed 54 rushing yards and a touchdown on 14 carries. The win brought Seattle into a three-way tie for second place in the NFC West, just a game behind Arizona.
Keys to the Game
Murray has been in peak form, completing 91.7% of his passes against the Jets and showcasing his ability to distribute the ball effectively. Seattle’s defense, which showed vulnerability against San Francisco’s late drives, must find a way to disrupt Murray’s rhythm. Without consistent pressure, Murray’s dual-threat capabilities could overwhelm the Seahawks.
Arizona’s aerial attack has been devastating, with Conner’s versatility as a pass-catcher and Harrison Jr.’s deep-ball prowess adding to the team’s offensive firepower. For Seattle, disciplined coverage and limiting explosive plays will be critical to keeping the Cardinals’ offense in check.
Smith’s composure under pressure was evident against the 49ers, but Arizona’s defense has not allowed a touchdown at home in three consecutive games. With Arizona’s pass rush ready to capitalize on any lapses, Smith will need another efficient performance to keep the Seahawks competitive.
Walker’s ability to gain tough yards will be pivotal for Seattle to control the clock and keep Arizona’s offense off the field. While Arizona’s run defense has been overshadowed by its pass-rushing dominance, this could be an area where Seattle finds success if they remain committed to the ground game.
Mistakes could swing the outcome of this tightly contested game. Arizona’s defense has excelled at forcing errors, while Seattle’s offense has shown the ability to capitalize on short fields. Field position and kicking accuracy will likely play a significant role in deciding the winner.
NFL Pick
This clash of NFC West foes promises a thrilling back-and-forth battle. Arizona’s offense, led by Murray’s dynamic playmaking, gives the Cardinals an edge, especially if Seattle’s defense struggles to adjust. However, Seattle’s ability to stay composed in clutch moments ensures they will remain in the fight until the end. Look for a high-scoring back-and-forth battle. I like the Over here.
NFL Pick: Over 47.5 (-110) at Bet365
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