Cardinals vs. Seahawks: The 5 Questions That Could Decide Thursday Night Football

Week 4 of the NFL season is here, bringing a crucial NFC West battle to Thursday Night Football as the Arizona Cardinals host the Seattle Seahawks. This game pits two teams with identical 2-1 records against each other, and the data points to five key questions that will determine who takes a commanding step forward in the divisional race.

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1. Is Trey Benson the Cardinals' new RB1, and will he find the end zone?

With star running back James Conner on the Injured Reserve, all eyes are on the Cardinals' new lead back, Trey Benson. The data projects him to be a major factor, with a high 10.5% probability of scoring the first touchdown of the game and a 38.3% chance of scoring at any time. His numbers suggest he is ready to take on a significant role and can be a potent red-zone threat. The question is whether he can deliver on this promise against a formidable Seattle front.

2. Can Kenneth Walker III out-produce the Cardinals' rushing attack?

The Seahawks' offense has a clear advantage on the ground, and their running back is projected to have a massive night. Kenneth Walker III has a stunning 11.2% probability of scoring the first touchdown, with a 45.5% chance to score a TD at any time. The question is whether the Cardinals can hold up against Walker's powerful running style and prevent him from completely controlling the game's momentum.

3. Is Jaxon Smith-Njigba the most important pass-catcher in this game?

The matchup features a number of talented pass-catchers, but the data points to one player as the most dominant. Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is projected for an impressive 87.9 receiving yards on 6.5 receptions with a 36.4% ATD probability. These numbers are significantly higher than any other player on either team, including the Cardinals' top tight end, Trey McBride. The question is whether the Cardinals' secondary, which has been solid this season, can contain Jaxon Smith-Njigba and prevent him from having a monster night that swings the game in Seattle's favor.

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4. How will Kyler Murray's legs impact the game?

Kyler Murray is a quarterback known for his dual-threat ability, and the data shows it's a huge factor. He is projected for 31.5 rushing yards, a number that contributes to his high 21.4% ATD probability. By contrast, Sam Darnold is projected for only 10.2 rushing yards, which is reflected in his low 10.9% ATD. The question is whether Murray can use his mobility to extend plays and create scoring opportunities, or if the Seahawks' defense will be able to contain him in the pocket and force him to win with his arm alone.

5. Will Trey McBride and the Cardinals' passing game find its rhythm?

While the Seahawks' offense is built around the consistent play of Sam Darnold, the Cardinals' passing game appears to have a higher ceiling with Kyler Murray's big-play ability. Trey McBride is projected for an impressive 63.9 receiving yards with a 7.8% FTD probability, which is much higher than any of the Seahawks' receivers - except for Jaxon Smith-Njigba. The question is whether the Cardinals' passing game can find its rhythm against a strong Seahawks' defense and turn these high-upside projections into game-winning plays.