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As the NFC West division heats up, the Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, and Los Angeles Rams are all vying for playoff positions with records of 4-4 or close behind. The Cardinals currently hold the tiebreaker thanks to a strong start in divisional play, while the Rams are just half a game behind. Each team faces unique challenges and opportunities as they head into crucial matchups that could determine the division winner.
- The NFC West is tightly contested with all teams within a game of each other.
- Key injuries and player performances will significantly impact the playoff race.
Kenneth Walker | RB
Breakout
Week 8
15 carries
70 rush yards
1 rush TDs
- Key player with 7 touchdowns despite missing games.
- Needs more involvement in the offense.
Kyler Murray | QB
Breakout
Week 8
250 pass yards
2 pass TDs
1 interceptions
- Playing some of the best football of his career with a QBR of 74.4.
- Has a strong understanding of the Cardinals' scheme and is healthy.
Marvin Harrison | WR
Breakout
Week 8
5 receptions
80 rec yards
1 rec TDs
- Key offensive player with 26 catches for 411 yards and 5 touchdowns.
- Can change the direction of a game with his playmaking ability.
Matthew Stafford | QB
Pickup
Week 8
350 pass yards
4 pass TDs
0- Had his best game of the season with 4 touchdown passes in Week 8.
- Looks strong with both Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua healthy.
Puka Nacua | WR
Pickup
Week 8
8 receptions
120 rec yards
0- Returned from injury and had a strong performance with over 100 receiving yards.
- Key player for the Rams' offense moving forward.
Brock Purdy | QB
Week 8
230 pass yards
1 pass TDs
1 interceptions
- Has played well despite injuries at skill positions.
- Still on track for a potential contract extension.
Christian McCaffrey | RB
Injury
Week 8
- His return is crucial for the 49ers' offense.
- Aiming for a Nov. 10 return against Tampa Bay.
Geno Smith | QB
Week 8
300 pass yards
2 pass TDs
1 interceptions
- Solid performance but needs to elevate his game.
- Leads the NFL in attempts and yards but has a low touchdown-to-interception ratio.
Arizona Cardinals
- Currently tied for first in the division with a strong offense led by Murray and Harrison.
- Need to improve third-down defense to maintain their position.
Los Angeles Rams
- Improving health and performance on offense gives them a chance to contend.
- Secondary remains a concern as they push for a playoff spot.
San Francisco 49ers
- Need to improve special teams and get healthy for a playoff push.
- History shows they can turn around a slow start.
Seattle Seahawks
- Run defense is a major concern as they struggle to contain opponents.
- Acquisition of Ernest Jones could help improve their defensive performance.