The Arizona Cardinals have clawed their way to the top of the NFC West, riding a four-game winning streak and a 6-4 record to first place in one of the NFL’s tightest divisions. With all four teams separated by just half a game, the Cardinals hold the No. 3 seed in the NFC playoff picture as they gear up for a crucial Week 12 showdown against the Seattle Seahawks.
Offensive Line Reinforcements on the Horizon
Arizona’s latest move to bolster their roster signals the return of right tackle Jonah Williams. The team waived offensive lineman Charlie Heck, paving the way for Williams’ activation from injured reserve. Williams, a former first-round pick by the Cincinnati Bengals, joined the Cardinals this offseason after the release of veteran lineman D.J. Humphries. However, a knee injury in Week 1 sidelined him for nearly the entire season.
The Cardinals must activate Williams by November 20, and all signs point to the sixth-year veteran suiting up. His return could fortify an offensive line that has seen steady improvement, giving quarterback Kyler Murray even more protection as the team looks to sustain its momentum.
Kyler Murray Leading the Charge
Kyler Murray’s resurgence has been a key factor in Arizona’s turnaround. After a rocky 1-3 start, the Pro Bowl quarterback has hit his stride in his second season under head coach Jonathan Gannon and offensive coordinator Drew Petzing. Murray’s best performance of the year came in Week 10, where he torched the New York Jets in a 31-6 victory. The dynamic passer set a franchise record with 17 consecutive completions, finishing 22-of-24 for 266 yards, three total touchdowns, and zero turnovers.
Gannon has been effusive in his praise for Murray’s leadership and execution, crediting him for the team’s recent surge. As the Cardinals gear up for a critical stretch of divisional matchups, Murray’s continued excellence will be crucial.
A Tight NFC West Race
The NFC West is shaping up to be one of the most competitive divisions in the league. Arizona’s 2-0 record in divisional play gives them a slight edge, but upcoming games against the Seahawks (Weeks 12 and 14), Rams (Week 17), and 49ers (Week 18) will determine their fate.
Seattle’s dramatic comeback win over San Francisco in Week 11 kept the Cardinals in first place during their bye week, but the margin for error remains razor-thin. Arizona’s ability to sustain its stronghold in the division will hinge on its performance in these critical games.
A Balanced Team on the Rise
The Cardinals’ record may not jump off the page, but their trajectory tells a different story. Gannon’s squad has shown steady improvement on both sides of the ball, with the offense finding its rhythm and the defense stepping up in key moments. The team’s adaptability and resilience have been on full display, giving fans reason to believe in a legitimate playoff push.
Looking Ahead to Seattle
The Cardinals will face a tough test in Week 12 as they travel to Seattle to take on the 5-5 Seahawks. A win would not only solidify their position atop the NFC West but also send a strong message to the rest of the league. With Murray in peak form and Williams likely bolstering the offensive line, Arizona appears poised to keep their winning streak alive.
Conclusion: A Team on the Brink of Something Special
From a 1-3 start to first place in the NFC West, the Arizona Cardinals have defied expectations and reignited their playoff hopes. With Kyler Murray leading the charge and reinforcements like Jonah Williams returning, the team has all the tools to cement their place among the NFC’s elite. As they prepare for a pivotal stretch of games, the Cardinals have their sights set not just on a division title, but on making noise in the postseason.
