As the 2024 NFL season unfolds, an unexpected narrative is taking shape in the NFC West. The Arizona Cardinals, once considered an afterthought following consecutive 4-13 records, have risen as a formidable force, capturing the attention of the football world. Their resurgence has been nothing short of remarkable, as they now find themselves leading the division with a 6-4 record.
From Slow Start to Division Leaders
Despite losing three of their first four games this season, the Cardinals have managed an impressive turnaround. The catalyst for this resurgence came in a Week 5 showdown against their division rivals, the San Francisco 49ers. Trailing by 13 points at halftime, the Cardinals staged a dramatic 24-23 victory, a game that seemingly ignited their momentum. Since that pivotal win, the Cardinals have claimed victory in five of their next six matchups.
These successive wins have vaulted Arizona to the top of the NFC West standings. While historically the division has been dominated by the likes of the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams—each clinching the top spot three times since 2015—the Cardinals are now at the helm, boasting a 48.2% chance of clinching the division title. The Seattle Seahawks have similarly succeeded twice in that span, further intensifying the division's competitive landscape.
The Driving Forces
Key figures have been at the heart of the Cardinals' climb. Quarterback Kyler Murray, standing 16th in the league with 12 touchdown passes against three interceptions, continues to be a steady presence. Yet, it's the ground game spearheaded by James Conner that truly deserves recognition. With the Cardinals ranking fifth in the NFL in rushing yards per game, averaging a robust 149.4 yards, Conner remains a linchpin. He is on the cusp of achieving his second consecutive 1,000-yard season, needing just 303 more yards to cross that threshold.
Upcoming Challenges
Looking ahead, the Cardinals' path is fraught with challenges. They are set to face off against the Seattle Seahawks next, a team that holds a 5-5 record and was unbeaten in their first three outings this season. Known for their potent aerial attack, the Seahawks currently stand second in the NFL for passing yards per game, largely credited to quarterback Geno Smith. A win for the Seahawks in this pivotal clash could bolster their division title hopes, increasing their chances to 29.4%.
Conversely, a victory for the Cardinals would significantly enhance their prospects, pushing their probability of securing the division to 60.4%. Following this matchup, Arizona will take on the Minnesota Vikings, adding another layer of intrigue to their schedule.
The State of the NFC West
Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams continue to vie for relevance in the division. Both holding 5-5 records, the 49ers have a 21.5% likelihood of capturing the NFC West title, whereas the Rams have seen their chances diminished to a modest 9.1%. However, should the Rams emerge victorious against the Philadelphia Eagles, they could enhance their probability to 13.7%, keeping their postseason dreams alive.
As the 2024 NFL season progresses, the Arizona Cardinals sit at a fascinating crossroads. Their ascent from back-to-back disappointing seasons to division frontrunners underscores the unpredictable nature of sports and the enduring allure of an underdog's rise. With the stakes higher than ever, each forthcoming game carries with it the weight of potential triumph or fall. The Cardinals will need every ounce of their newfound momentum as they chart their path through the world's most competitive football league.