Arizona Cardinals: Rising Contenders in the NFC West
The Arizona Cardinals have emerged as a formidable force in the NFC West during the 2024 NFL season. After two consecutive seasons marred by a disappointing 4-13 record, the Cardinals have found their groove and are now perched atop the NFC West standings, demonstrating resilience and determination in every game.
Historically, the NFC West has been a battleground dominated primarily by the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams, both of whom have claimed the top spot three times since the Cardinals last won the division in 2015. Adding to the competitive mix, the Seattle Seahawks have also had their share of success, winning the division twice in the same period. This season, however, the Cardinals seem poised to disrupt the status quo.
Despite a rocky start to the 2024 season, losing three of their first four games, the Cardinals have orchestrated a remarkable turnaround. Their Week 5 matchup against the 49ers was a definitive moment, showcasing their grit and potential. Trailing 23-10 at halftime, the Cardinals staged a comeback, clinching a narrow 24-23 victory. This pivotal win set the stage for a subsequent run of five victories in six games, bringing them to a 6-4 record and the summit of the NFC West.
The Cardinals’ resurgence can be attributed to several key factors. Quarterback Kyler Murray has been a steady presence, delivering 12 touchdown passes and keeping his interceptions to three, ranking him 16th in the league. Meanwhile, running back James Conner is spearheading a powerful Arizona ground attack, which ranks fifth in the NFL with an impressive average of 149.4 rushing yards per game. Conner is just 303 yards shy of achieving his second consecutive 1,000-yard rushing season, a milestone well within his reach given his current form.
Upcoming challenges include crucial games against the Seattle Seahawks and Minnesota Vikings. The Seahawks, currently holding a 5-5 record, are second in the NFL for passing yards per game, relying heavily on quarterback Geno Smith to steer their offensive efforts. A win for the Seahawks against the Cardinals would bolster their chances of snatching the division title, increasing their probability to 29.4%.
On the other hand, a victory for Arizona could significantly enhance their prospects, boosting their division title chances to an impressive 60.4%. This upcoming encounter promises to be a pivotal clash with substantial implications for both teams' playoff hopes.
Elsewhere in the division, the 49ers have matched the Seahawks with a 5-5 record but hold a slightly lower 21.5% chance of taking the division crown. Meanwhile, the Rams find themselves on the back foot, with only a 9.1% probability of winning the division. However, a victory against the Philadelphia Eagles could elevate their chances to 13.7%, offering a glimmer of hope as the season progresses.
The Cardinals' current trajectory is a testament to their resilience and improvement, shaking up a division traditionally controlled by other powerhouses. With strategic gameplay and standout performances from key players, Arizona fans have every reason to be optimistic about their team's chances this season. As the race for the NFC West title heats up, all eyes will be on the Cardinals to see if they can maintain their newfound dominance and secure their place in the playoffs.