Arizona Cardinals: NFC West Contenders in 2024
The Arizona Cardinals have defied expectations this 2024 NFL season, making waves in a tightly contested NFC West division. After enduring consecutive 4-13 seasons, the Cardinals have risen to prominence, sitting at the top of the standings with a 6-4 record. This transformation marks a potential end to a nearly decade-long drought since their last NFC West crown in 2015, with the team now holding a 48.2% chance of clinching the title.
Turning the Tide
In a division historically dominated by the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams—each winning the top spot three times since the Cardinals’ last triumph—the Cardinals' resurgence is noteworthy. They have successfully emerged as frontrunners, breaking through in a division where even the Seattle Seahawks, with two titles since 2015, have struggled to maintain dominance.
The Cardinals' current journey, however, didn't start smoothly. They lost three of their first four games in 2024, casting shadows of another bleak season. But the team’s Week 5 comeback victory against the 49ers seemed to ignite a spark. The dramatic 24-23 win, which saw the Cardinals overturn a 23-10 halftime deficit, was the catalyst for a striking turnaround. Since then, they have won five of their next six games, positioning themselves firmly at the top of the standings.
The Key Performers
Underpinning Arizona's success is the dynamic performance of their key players. Quarterback Kyler Murray, despite ranking mid-pack statistically with 12 touchdown passes and three interceptions, has provided consistency and flair, critical in tight contests. Meanwhile, the Cardinals' ground game, led by running back James Conner, has been pivotal. Averaging 149.4 rushing yards per game, Arizona’s rushing attack ranks fifth in the league. Conner is currently on the cusp of reaching his second consecutive 1,000-yard rushing season, needing just 303 more yards.
The Road Ahead
As the Cardinals prepare for upcoming face-offs with the Seattle Seahawks and Minnesota Vikings, the stakes are high. Seattle, also sitting at a 5-5 record, began the season with promise following three consecutive wins and boasts the league's second-best passing attack under quarterback Geno Smith. A victory against the Cardinals would increase Seattle’s division title chances to 29.4%, illustrating just how tightly contested the NFC West race remains.
Conversely, a win for the Cardinals would bolster their grip on the top position, increasing their division title odds to 60.4%. The looming matchup against Seattle is not only a test of mettle but also a potential pivotal moment in the Cardinals' quest for divisional supremacy.
NFC West Landscape
While the Cardinals and Seahawks vie for leadership, the San Francisco 49ers, with their 5-5 record, aren't far behind, holding a 21.5% chance to seize the division. The Los Angeles Rams, though less favored with a 9.1% probability, could improve their positions with wins against formidable opponents like the Philadelphia Eagles, boosting their chances to 13.7% if successful.
As Arizona pushes forward, the NFC West remains one of the most competitive divisions, where a single game can rapidly alter the landscape. For the Cardinals, maintaining their momentum is vital if they wish to conclude the regular season as division champions and potentially make a deep playoff run.
In a narrative rich with redemption and unexpected triumph, the Arizona Cardinals are writing a new chapter this NFL season. With keen focus and continued resilience, they aim not only to silence the critics but to reestablish themselves as a formidable force in the league.