In a dramatic turnaround during the 2024 NFL season, the Arizona Cardinals have ascended to the top of the NFC West standings, a division historically dominated by powerhouses like the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams. This dramatic change marks a significant shift from their previous back-to-back 4-13 seasons, highlighting their potential and resilience.
Early Season Struggles
The start of the 2024 season was anything but smooth for the Cardinals, who dropped three of their first four games. Fans were left wondering if another disappointing season was on the horizon. However, the tide began to turn in Week 5 with a sensational comeback victory against the 49ers. Trailing 23-10 at halftime, the Cardinals clawed their way back to secure a 24-23 win, setting the stage for a remarkable run of form.
A Surge to the Top
Building on the momentum from their Week 5 triumph, the Cardinals went on to win five of their next six games, propelling them to a 6-4 record. This turnaround has placed them firmly at the top of the NFC West standings for the first time since they last won the division in 2015. Currently holding a 48.2% chance of clinching the division title, the Cardinals are poised to break the stranglehold the 49ers and Rams have had over the division, having won it three times each since 2015. The Seattle Seahawks, who have also claimed the division twice in recent years, present an ongoing challenge.
Key Contributors
Pivotal to the Cardinals' resurgence is their dynamic offensive duo. Quarterback Kyler Murray ranks 16th in the NFL for touchdown passes this season, with 12 to his name, and has managed to keep turnovers low with only three interceptions. Meanwhile, running back James Conner has been instrumental on the ground, leading an Arizona rushing attack that ranks fifth in the league with an average of 149.4 rushing yards per game. Conner is on the cusp of his second consecutive 1,000-yard season, currently needing just 303 more yards to hit that milestone.
The Road Ahead
The Cardinals' upcoming games against the Seattle Seahawks and Minnesota Vikings will be key in determining their path forward. The Seahawks, with a 5-5 record, began the season with three straight wins and remain a formidable opponent, boasting the NFL's second-highest passing yards per game. Led by quarterback Geno Smith, Seattle will be keen to enhance their chances, which could rise to 29.4% with a win over Arizona.
Arizona, meanwhile, could further solidify their divisional prospects with a victory, boosting their chances to 60.4%. The stakes are high as the division race tightens. The 49ers, sharing a 5-5 record with the Seahawks, hold a 21.5% chance to claim the NFC West, while the Rams, trailing with a 9.1% chance, have an opportunity to increase their odds to 13.7% with an upcoming win against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Conclusion
As the Cardinals continue their invigorating journey through the 2024 season, their position atop the NFC West is a testament to their tenacity and skill. With pivotal matches on the horizon, the Cardinals' quest to reclaim the division title will require maintaining their current form and overcoming the remaining challenges posed by their competitors. Their story is one to watch as the season progresses, with fans hopeful for a return to the heights not seen since their last division triumph in 2015.