The Seattle Seahawks return to Lumen Field on Sunday to face the Arizona Cardinals in a divisional matchup with plenty of betting opportunities. Seattle enters as an 8.5-point favorite, with the game total set at 39.5 points, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
The Seahawks have had an inconsistent season, but Arizona’s defensive struggles create some interesting opportunities on both sides of the ball. The Cardinals have allowed 29 touchdowns through eight games, the most in the NFL. That could open
the door for Seattle’s offense, particularly in the red zone.
Here are four bets/game picks worth considering ahead of Sunday’s game.
1. Jadarian Price Anytime Touchdown Scorer (+180)
Jadarian Price is an interesting option to find the end zone against Arizona. The rookie has shown the potential to turn an ordinary running lane into a big play, and Seattle’s recent investment in its offensive line could help him find more opportunities to showcase that ability.
Against a defense that has struggled throughout the season, those opportunities could translate into a touchdown.
There is one important caveat, though: Price needs to take better care of the football. His fumbles have been a concern, and another mistake could limit his opportunities. If he can protect the ball, his explosiveness gives him a legitimate chance to make an impact on the scoreboard.
2. Trey McBride Over 59.5 receiving yards
Trey McBride is one of the most reliable pass-catching tight ends in the NFL, and Seattle has historically struggled to contain him. The coverage behind Seattle’s linebackers has been a recurring issue, particularly when opponents attack the intermediate areas of the field.
McBride is exactly the type of player who can take advantage of that weakness. He’s a dependable target, consistently finds space in coverage and gives his quarterback a reliable option when the pocket gets uncomfortable. Arizona should have plenty of reasons to involve him throughout the game, especially if Seattle prioritizes preventing explosive plays elsewhere.
3. Jaxon Smith-Njigba Anytime Touchdown Scorer (-125)
Jaxon Smith-Njigba should be one of Drew Lock’s most important weapons on Sunday. The two have shown good chemistry, and that connection could become particularly valuable against an Arizona defense that has struggled to consistently defend the passing game.
Smith-Njigba can help Seattle address one of its biggest offensive concerns: finishing drives in the red zone. He was an important part of the solution in the first meeting between these teams, and the Seahawks should look to get him involved again when the field becomes shorter.
His value isn’t limited to the red zone, either. Smith-Njigba has also been a dangerous deep threat throughout the season, capable of creating separation and turning downfield opportunities into explosive plays. That versatility makes him an especially valuable target for Lock, who will need reliable options to keep the offense moving.
With their established chemistry and JSN’s ability to contribute at every level of the field, there’s a good case for backing him to find the end zone.
4. Seahawks -8.5 (-110)
This might be the most difficult bet to evaluate, largely because of the uncertainty surrounding Drew Lock. However, I don’t see much of a middle ground in this matchup.
If Lock struggles, Seattle could have a difficult afternoon. Turnovers, particularly interceptions, could give Arizona short fields and keep the Cardinals in a game where they might otherwise struggle to keep pace offensively.
On the other hand, Lock could deliver another performance similar to his first meeting against Arizona. If he protects the football, establishes a rhythm with Smith-Njigba and takes advantage of Seattle’s improved offensive line, the Seahawks have enough talent to win comfortably and cover the spread.
The Cardinals’ defensive struggles make the second scenario entirely possible. Seattle has the weapons to create separation on the scoreboard, but everything depends on which version of Lock shows up.
I’m willing to take the risk because I believe Seattle has a significant advantage if its quarterback plays a clean game.
Final Prediction: Seahawks 27, Cardinals 17.
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