As the NFL season progresses into its critical stages, the Arizona Cardinals have emerged as a surprising force in the NFC West, showing resilience and tenacity in a division long dominated by stalwarts like the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams. With a current standing of 6-4, the Cardinals are leading the NFC West, defying expectations and historical trends.
From a Rocky Start to a Promising Surge
The 2024 season didn’t initially favor the Cardinals, as they stumbled through a tough opening stretch, losing three of their first four games. This slow start seemed to predict yet another challenging season reminiscent of their back-to-back 4-13 records in previous years. However, an electrifying comeback victory against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 5 changed the tide. Trailing 23-10 at halftime, the Cardinals mounted an impressive rally to win 24-23, a victory that acted as a catalyst for their subsequent success.
Following this pivotal win, the Cardinals captured victory in five out of their next six games, steadily climbing the division rankings. This remarkable turnaround has provided Arizona with not only a psychological boost but also a substantial statistical chance—a 48.2% probability—of securing the NFC West title.
Key Contributors and Strategic Strengths
Central to the Cardinals' resurgence is the performance of quarterback Kyler Murray. Ranking 16th in the NFL with 12 touchdown passes and only three interceptions, Murray has provided leadership and stability at the quarterback position. In tandem with Murray’s performance, running back James Conner has been a pivotal contributor, spearheading a ground attack that ranks fifth in the league with an average of 149.4 rushing yards per game. With 303 rushing yards needed to achieve his second consecutive 1,000-yard season, Conner's contributions have been essential to the Cardinals' dynamic offense.
High-Stakes Battles Await
Looking ahead, the Cardinals face crucial divisional tests against the Seattle Seahawks and a challenging matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. These games hold immense implications not just for the Cardinals, but for the division as a whole. The Seahawks, currently with a 5-5 record, are seeking to bolster their position in the division as well. Seattle began the season with three consecutive wins and boasts the second-highest passing yards per game, largely thanks to quarterback Geno Smith's capabilities. A victory against Arizona could enhance Seattle’s chances of claiming the division to 29.4%.
These upcoming matches are pivotal for the Cardinals. A win against Seattle could elevate Arizona's division title hopes to 60.4%, cementing their status as a serious contender. Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers, holding a 5-5 record like the Seahawks, possess a 21.5% chance to reclaim the division, hinting at the closeness of the race. The Los Angeles Rams, another seasoned competitor in the NFC West, currently have a 9.1% probability of claiming the title, which they could increase to 13.7% with a win over the Philadelphia Eagles.
A Season of Unpredictability
The competitiveness in the NFC West this season exemplifies the unpredictable nature of the NFL. Since their last division crown in 2015, the Cardinals have watched the 49ers and Rams trade division titles three times, while the Seahawks have taken the top spot twice. However, with their recent performances, the Cardinals are rewriting their narrative in 2024, showcasing a blend of resilience and skill that few anticipated at the season’s start.
In a division known for its fierce rivalries and unpredictable results, the Cardinals’ journey from the bottom to the top of the NFC West standings highlights the dynamic nature of football, where fortune can change on any given Sunday. As the season progresses, Arizona will continue to face challenges, but with their newfound momentum and a roster ready to compete, the Cardinals aim to maintain their lead and possibly bring the NFC West title back to Arizona for the first time in nearly a decade.