Seattle Seahawks vs Arizona Cardinals Week 1 Preview

The regular season opens up for the Seattle Seahawks with a game against the division rival Arizona Cardinals.

Seattle will have the chance to take an early lead in the NFC West with a win this Sunday, as well as see how their rookie quarterback will perform in his first regular season start.

Russell Wilson will be up against a mediocre Cardinals defense, which should allow him to perform in his first career start in the NFL. Wilson will have the chance to lead his team to a division win, which will be the first step to get into the post season.

One player Wilson will have to watch out for on Arizona’s defense in cornerback Patrick Peterson, who can give him some trouble on the outside. Peterson is a young corner with a football mindset and enough speed to cover most receivers in the league.

The young quarterback will need some help on offense from running back Robert Turbin if Marshawn Lynch is unable to play. Lynch is still listed as questionable and will be a game time decision. Turbin had a few decent runs in the preseason but will have a big role to fill in Lynch’s absence.

As long as the running game can continue to move the ball forward, Wilson will have enough pressure off of him to allow the rookie to make the plays needed for a win.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Seahawks should perform on a high level against the Cardinals both on the defensive line and in the secondary. Arizona is weak at the quarterback position with starter John Skelton, who threw three more interceptions than touchdown passes in eight games last season. If Seattle’s secondary can have the success they had during the preseason, then they should win the turnover differential.

Arizona does not have the strongest running game with back Beanie Wells. Wells is listed as questionable but is expected to start week one. Seattle should be able to stop the run game and force the Cardinals to pass more.

The Seahawks will have a challenge going on the road with a rookie quarterback for the first game of the season but if the running game stays alive and the defense holds strong in the air, Seattle will have a victory in the NFC West.

Prediction: Seattle wins 20-10.