The NFL season is heating up, and all eyes are on the upcoming clash between the Seattle Seahawks and the Arizona Cardinals. This is not just another game; it’s a pivotal matchup that could shake up the NFC West standings. With the Seahawks sitting at the top with a 7-5 record and the Cardinals trailing closely at 6-6, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Game Details
Set your reminders for 4:05 pm ET on Sunday, December 8, 2024. The action unfolds at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ, and you can catch every thrilling moment on CBS.
Opening Odds at USA Sportsbooks
The sportsbooks have spoken, and the odds are tantalizing. At DraftKings, Bet365, and BetMGM, the Cardinals are slight favorites with a point spread of -2.5, while the Seahawks are at +2.5. The over/under is set at 44.5 points.
Season Records
The Seahawks lead the NFC West with a 7-5 record, showcasing their strength and resilience this season. Meanwhile, the Cardinals are not far behind, holding a 6-6 record and sitting in second place. This game is crucial for both teams as they vie for supremacy in their division.
Recent Form
The Seahawks are riding high after a road victory against the New York Jets, winning 26-21. On the other hand, the Cardinals are looking to bounce back after a narrow 23-22 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency will be key in this matchup.
Seattle Seahawks vs Arizona Cardinals Preview and Analysis
The Seahawks have been impressive on the road this season, boasting a 4-1 record. Geno Smith, their starting QB, has been a steady presence, completing 20 of 31 passes for 206 yards and a touchdown in their last outing. Kenneth Walker III and Jaxon Smith-Njigba have been pivotal in their offensive schemes, while Leonard Williams has been a defensive powerhouse.
The Cardinals, with a 4-2 home record, will be looking to capitalize on their home advantage. Kyler Murray has been a dynamic force, throwing for 260 yards and a touchdown in their last game. Trey McBride and James Conner have been key contributors, and the defense will need to step up to contain the Seahawks’ offense.
Seahawks vs Cardinals Prediction
The Cardinals are slight favorites, and for good reason. Despite recent setbacks, they have shown resilience and have a strong home record. A win here would level the playing field in the NFC West, making this a must-watch game. The prediction? Cardinals 24, Seahawks 21. Expect a close contest with the Cardinals covering the spread.
NFL Betting Trends
For those looking to place a bet, consider these trends: The Seahawks are 3-6 ATS on grass fields and have a 14-4 UNDER record in games with a line of +3 to -3. The Cardinals, however, are 9-5 ATS following a road loss and 3-0 ATS after a two-game road trip. These insights could be the key to making an informed bet.
Key Injuries
Injuries could play a significant role in the outcome. The Seahawks have a lengthy list, including M. Dickson (back), C. Bryant (ankle), and D. Metcalf (shoulder). The Cardinals are dealing with injuries to D. Stills (back) and D. Robinson (calf). Keep an eye on these players as game day approaches.
Notable Quotes
“He’s just playing at an all-time elite level. He’s playing out of his mind right now,” said Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald, reflecting on their recent performance. Meanwhile, Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon lamented, “We went backwards on the last drive. That was brutal,” after their loss to the Vikings.
Starting Lineups
For the Seahawks, expect to see DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba leading the charge, with Geno Smith at QB. The Cardinals will counter with Zay Jones, Marvin Harrison Jr., and Michael Wilson, with Kyler Murray orchestrating the offense.
Statistical Leaders
Geno Smith leads the Seahawks with 3,241 passing yards, while Kenneth Walker has rushed for 542 yards. Jaxon Smith-Njigba tops the receiving charts with 829 yards. For the Cardinals, Kyler Murray has thrown for 2,603 yards, James Conner has rushed for 773 yards, and Trey McBride has 781 receiving yards.
As the anticipation builds, fans and bettors alike are gearing up for what promises to be an electrifying showdown. Will the Seahawks extend their lead, or will the Cardinals make a statement at home? Only time will tell.
