Seattle Seahawks vs. Arizona Cardinals, 8:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, NBC
The Seahawks win if…
Their vicious defense can live up to expectations.
In another season, Seattle’s defense has been brilliant through the early portion of the season. And although last week’s test against the Falcons was the first “legitimate” offense they’ve battled in 2016, they again did enough to (pass interference or not) to take home a win and set the team up beautifully for the mid-season stretch. This week, on the road in Arizona, the challenge gets turned up another notch or two. If this unit can find a way to perform as the league’s best for the second week in a row against top-tier offenses, cruising to the postseason shouldn’t prove to be a difficult task.
The Cardinals win if…
David Johnson’s game-breaking ability strikes again.
There might not be anybody in the NFL who is more enjoyable to watch than Johnson. He’s by all means a fantastic person and a better football player who changes the game when he steps onto the field. Arizona found a gem, and it’s safe to say they won’t be under-utilizing him any time soon. This week, the offense’s ability to be well-rounded and unpredictable will be the ultimate edge. With Johnson able to carry the load in both aspects of the game plan, expect a heavy dose of touches that could thrust him into the MVP candidate category.
Cardinals claw their way to a win in primetime at home, knock off Seattle, 21-20.