NFL: 5 Must-See Matchups In Week 16
By Ryan Ratty
Seahawks vs. Cardinals
Finally, the game of the week is a game that will decide first place in the NFL’s best division. The NFC West features four quality teams. Yes, you read that right. Four. Ever since being 3-3, the Super Bowl-defending Seattle Seahawks have won seven out of their last eight and they are finding their groove at the perfect time. Seattle has given up just 24 points in the past three weeks and they should have tons of success against an Arizona Cardinals team that is without their starting quarterback, backup quarterback, and their starting running back.
What a season it could’ve been for the Cardinals. Honestly, there wasn’t a team that was more impressive than the Cardinals at a time this season. However, injuries have killed them. Carson Palmer tore his ACL, Drew Stanton suffered a Grade 2 ACL and MCL sprain last week, and Andre Ellington is out for the season with a sports hernia injury. Against the best defense in the league in Seattle, the Cardinals will be starting Ryan Lindley. It’s safe to say it’s going to be a long day for the Cardinals on offense.
While the Cardinals have clinched a playoff berth, the reality is that they will likely end up as a wild card team. Seattle is hitting their stride at the best time and they know that they are almost impossible to beat at home. Arizona is 7-0 at home, but they will be playing a more determined Seattle team that still needs to win to make the playoffs. However, there will be a playoff atmosphere in Arizona and this game will be a fun one to watch.