In an unexpected turn of events, the Arizona Cardinals are making headlines in the NFL as they rise to the top of the NFC West standings during the 2024 season. This performance is a striking contrast to their recent past, where they endured consecutive seasons with dismal 4-13 records. However, this year, the Cardinals have ascended to a record of 6-4, positioning them as frontrunners in a division that has been dominated by the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams since 2015.
A New Era for the Cardinals
The last time the Cardinals clinched the NFC West division title was in 2015. They have since watched from the sidelines as the 49ers and Rams repeatedly rose to the top, each securing the division title three times, and as the Seattle Seahawks claimed it twice. Now, the Cardinals have created a buzz by not only improving their performance but also by grabbing hold of the division lead.
The turnaround for the Cardinals seemed distant when they lost three of their first four games in the 2024 campaign. Yet, a critical Week 5 victory sparked a resurgence. Facing the formidable 49ers, Arizona staged a dramatic comeback, overcoming a 13-point halftime deficit to win 24-23. Since then, the Cardinals have built momentum, winning five of their last six games.
Key Players Driving Success
Much of Arizona’s success can be attributed to the performances of key players. Quarterback Kyler Murray, although ranked 16th in the NFL for touchdown passes with 12 and three interceptions this season, has driven the offense with consistency. The ground game, marshaled by running back James Conner, has proven equally formidable. The Cardinals’ rushing attack is now ranked fifth in the league, achieving an average of 149.4 yards per game. Conner is just 303 yards shy of reaching his second consecutive 1,000-yard rushing season, an achievement that bodes well for the Cardinals.
Upcoming Challenges and Opportunities
Standing at the top, the Cardinals face tough competition in their upcoming schedule, taking on the Seattle Seahawks and Minnesota Vikings next. The Seahawks, who began their season with three consecutive wins, share a 5-5 record, and boast the second-best passing yards per game in the NFL; a testament to their reliance on quarterback Geno Smith. A win for Seattle could significantly increase their division title chances from 19% to 29.4%.
Conversely, a victory for the Cardinals would boost their division title prospects from a current 48.2% to a commanding 60.4%. Meanwhile, the 49ers, tied with the Seahawks at 5-5, have a 21.5% chance to claim the division, while the Rams hold a slim 9.1% probability. However, the Rams could see that number rise to 13.7% should they triumph against the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Road Ahead
As Arizona continues its push for supremacy in the NFC West, maintaining focus and performance will be key. Their resurgence this year is not only a breath of fresh air for Cardinals fans but also a testament to the unpredictability and excitement that have always characterized the NFL. With an improving squad and pivotal games in their sights, the Cardinals are poised to rewrite recent history and possibly secure their first division title in nearly a decade.