Arizona Cardinals at Seattle Seahawks: Sweet Revenge

(Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images)

For the first time in years, the Seahawks utterly destroyed a halfway decent team. For the first time in years, this is an inspired group. For the first time in years, the defense has shut down a legit offense.

And for the first time in what seems like years, the Cardinals will realize the true masters of the rivalry.

While San Francisco is the dominant team in the division right now, with a win the Hawks can go into their bye 3-3 with a lot of momentum, confidence, and yes, for the first time in years, swagger.

Three Keys to Seahawk Victory

Eliminating the Cardinal run game— This isn't hard to do, but it has to be done. While a backfield of Tim Hightower and Chris Wells doesn't scare me, a lot of 2nd and 5s and 3rd and 3s do scare me.

This also means stopping quick routes and WR screens at the line of scrimmage. Last year those routes killed us.

Warner can still sling it, especially with a trio of Fitzgerald, Boldin, and Breaston. They cannot be allowed to take over the game, or else it's a steep climb for Seattle.

Producing our own running game— This is for the same reason we want to stop Arizona'a run game, only flipped. I believe whoever can produce the most on the ground, wins.

The Defensive Front— The Seahawks defensive line has been surprisingly solid, bringing down the quarterback 14 times in five games. The Cardinals offensive line, not surprisingly, has played poorly, especially the tackles.

This ties into shutting down the run game because if Warner is forced to throw, the line can play pass rush right off the ball. If Hightower and Wells are continually stuffed, then look for the front seven to have a big day.

Matchup to Watch— The Defense and 12th man vs. Kurt Warner and his O-Line.

It's simple really. If Warner is continually pressured and backed up by false starts, he will lose. If the defense has to play run first then pass, and the OL remains disciplined, the Cards will win.

I like the Hawks in this game because Hasselbeck has these guys incredibly inspired. The offense is clicking, and the defense plays great at home.

Hawks win big.

Prediction : Seattle 31, Arizona 16

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