As the 2024 NFL season unfolds, the Arizona Cardinals have emerged as a surprising frontrunner in the competitive NFC West. With nine weeks in the books, the Cardinals have carved out an impressive narrative after consecutive seasons marred by 4-13 records. Optimism now surrounds the team as they navigate through a season that increasingly appears to be one of redemption and determination.
A Promising Turnaround
The Cardinals’ ascent to the top of the NFC West is notable considering they kicked off the season with three losses in their first four games. Yet, any signs of early struggles were swiftly overshadowed by a remarkable Week 5 victory against the San Francisco 49ers, a formidable rival within the division. Trailing 23-10 at halftime, Arizona exhibited resilience and tactical prowess, emerging victorious with a narrow 24-23 final score.
This victory served as a catalyst, propelling the Cardinals to win five of their subsequent six games. Their current standing at 6-4 places them at the helm of the NFC West, a position they have not occupied comfortably since their division triumph in 2015. With their recent performances, the Cardinals hold a promising 48.2% probability of clinching the division title—a notable feat in a division historically dominated by the 49ers and Los Angeles Rams, who have each claimed the top spot three times since 2015, while the Seahawks have won twice.
Key Performances
At the heart of the Cardinals' resurgence is quarterback Kyler Murray. While ranking 16th in the NFL, Murray's tally of 12 touchdown passes, coupled with only three interceptions, showcases his ability to lead a dynamic and efficient offense. Paired with Murray's efforts is the formidable ground game spearheaded by running back James Conner. Conner has been instrumental, driving an Arizona rushing attack that ranks fifth in the league with an average of 149.4 rushing yards per game. With 303 more yards, Conner will reach his second consecutive 1,000-yard season, a testament to his consistency and impact on the field.
Upcoming Challenges
The path forward for the Cardinals is fraught with challenges pivotal to their playoff aspirations. Next on their schedule are the Seattle Seahawks and Minnesota Vikings. The Seahawks, now holding a 5-5 record, started the season strong with three consecutive wins but have since encountered some turbulence. Nonetheless, they remain a considerable threat, second only in the NFL for passing yards per game with quarterback Geno Smith steering the helm of their aerial attack. A victory against Seattle is crucial for Arizona, as it would elevate their division title chances to an impressive 60.4%, further solidifying their bid for postseason glory.
Conversely, the NFC West landscape remains fluid. The Seahawks, with a potential win, could enhance their division title prospects to 29.4%. Meanwhile, their divisional foes, the San Francisco 49ers, sit with the same 5-5 record and face a 21.5% chance of clinching the title. Over in Los Angeles, the Rams linger in the title race albeit with a modest 9.1% probability. They could see this rise to 13.7% should they triumph over the Philadelphia Eagles.
A Season of Redemption
In a season where the Cardinals are rebuilding their reputation and striving to shatter recent years of disappointment, their current trajectory signals a team poised to redefine success for themselves. The blend of strategic execution, perseverance, and standout individual performances may just tip the scales in Arizona’s favor as they eye the NFC West crown once more. The remaining games will test their fortitude and resolve as they aim to sustain their momentum and deliver a narrative worthy of the 2024 season’s potential.