The spotlight shines on the NFC West in Week 4 as the Seattle Seahawks face the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday Night Football. Both teams enter with a chance to seize early momentum in the division. For Seattle, it’s about proving their strong start is no fluke. For Arizona, it’s about showing resilience after key injuries have shaken their roster. This Seahawks vs Cardinals TNF preview dives into the storylines, injuries, matchups, betting angles, and prediction for the primetime clash.
Key Storylines to Watch
Can Sam Darnold Keep Seattle’s Offense Hot?
Seattle’s decision to bring in Sam Darnold has paid off so far. Through three weeks, the veteran quarterback has completed over 70% of his passes and sits near the top of the league in yards per attempt. Surrounded by weapons like Cooper Kupp, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and rookie Tory Horton, the Seahawks have been able to stretch defenses vertically while keeping things efficient underneath.
Still, questions linger about the run game. Kenneth Walker III has yet to break out this season, and backup Zach Charbonnet is dealing with a foot injury. If Seattle becomes too one-dimensional, Arizona’s defense may find ways to create pressure.
Cardinals Searching for Answers Without James Conner
The Cardinals suffered a major blow when running back James Conner went down with a season-ending foot injury. Rookie Trey Benson steps into the starting role, but relying on an untested back against Seattle’s fast, aggressive defense is a tall task.
Quarterback Kyler Murray has shown flashes, but protection has been an issue. The Cardinals’ offensive line has already allowed double-digit sacks, and receivers have struggled with drops. To keep pace, Murray will need to use his legs and make explosive plays outside the pocket.
Seattle’s Defense Emerging as a Force
The Seahawks’ defense has quietly become one of the league’s best. Entering Week 4, they rank first in consistency, allowing under 16 points per game. Even without injured starters like Devon Witherspoon and Nick Emmanwori, Seattle’s depth has held strong.
Pass rusher Byron Murphy II has been a constant menace, leading a unit that ranks among the top teams in pressure rate. Against a Cardinals offensive line that’s already banged up, Seattle’s front seven could tilt the game early.
Injury Report: Who’s In and Who’s Out?
Seattle Seahawks Injury Watch
- Devon Witherspoon (knee) – questionable
- Nick Emmanwori (ankle) – doubtful
- Julian Love (hamstring) – uncertain
- Zach Charbonnet (foot) – questionable
Arizona Cardinals Injury Watch
- Kelvin Beachum (knee) – questionable
- Paris Johnson Jr. (knee) – limited practice
- Evan Brown (ankle) – questionable
- Zay Jones (concussion) – ruled out
- James Conner (foot) – out for season
The health of Arizona’s offensive line will be critical. Missing multiple starters could leave Murray under heavy pressure against a Seattle front that’s thriving early in 2025.
Matchup Breakdown and X-Factors
Seahawks Passing Game vs Cardinals Secondary
The trio of Kupp, Smith-Njigba, and Horton creates matchup nightmares. Arizona’s secondary has struggled against slot receivers, which makes JSN a key factor on third downs. If Darnold stays upright, Seattle’s air attack should have the advantage.
Cardinals Offense vs Seahawks Front Seven
Without Conner, the Cardinals lack a reliable ground game. That could force Murray to shoulder too much of the load, increasing sack risk. Seattle’s linebackers and edge rushers should have opportunities to disrupt drives.
Special Teams & Hidden Yardage
Seattle has been more consistent in the return game, while Arizona’s coverage units have allowed multiple long returns already this season. Field position could play a bigger role than expected in a divisional game that often comes down to small details.
Final Thoughts
This Seahawks vs Cardinals Thursday Night Football matchup has the feel of a statement game for Seattle. If Darnold and the passing attack remain sharp, the Seahawks could establish themselves as a real NFC contender. For Arizona, Thursday night is about survival, adjusting to injuries, and finding ways to stay competitive in a brutal division.
One team has momentum. The other has questions. Under the lights in Week 4, we’ll see which storyline carries the night.
