Cardinals’ Seahawks problem grows with 10th straight loss to Seattle

The Arizona Cardinals grapple with a growing problem against the Seattle Seahawks, suffering their 10th consecutive loss in the series. At halftime, the matchup was tied, but the Cardinals faltered in the second half, ultimately falling 31-7. Teammate Zaven Collins expressed frustration, noting that the team, despite its strong offense and defense, was unable to overcome a formidable Seahawks squad.

Arizona had a brief positive stretch against Seattle starting in 2019, securing three out of four wins, including a close 23-20 victory last season. However, the majority of their encounters have been lopsided, with seven games decided by 10 points or more, including a 44-22 rout last season after trailing 35-0. This season, the Cardinals started with a strong performance under coach Mike LaFleur, defeating the Los Angeles Chargers 26-14.

Early in the game against Seattle, the Cardinals held a 7-all tie at halftime, missing key opportunities on offense. A series of defensive lapses and an offense struggling to make plays unfolded, allowing the Seahawks to extend their lead in the second half. Seattle's defense, in particular, stifled Arizona's run game, while pressuring quarterback Jacoby Brissett, limiting him to 95 passing yards with a touchdown and an interception.

The Cardinals' wide receivers also struggled, with four combined catches for only 29 yards. The Seahawks' star receiver, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, was a significant challenge for Arizona's defense, scoring two touchdowns, including an 82-yard pass on Seattle's second play from scrimmage and contributing 133 receiving yards. Cardinals coach LaFleur acknowledged Smith-Njigba's exceptional skills, describing him as "very good," if not "arguably the best one."

The Cardinals' inability to contain Smith-Njigba is just one facet of their broader challenges against the Seahawks.