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SEATTLE — The Seattle Seahawks showcased a formidable defensive performance, leading them to a significant victory against division rival Arizona Cardinals, propelling them to the top of the NFC West standings.

Although it might seem reminiscent of their powerhouse defenses from a decade ago, this is the 2024 Seahawks, who significantly improved their run defense after early season struggles, restricting the Cardinals to merely 49 rushing yards in a 16-6 triumph.

The Seahawks’ defensive line, spearheaded by a standout Leonard Williams, kept quarterback Kyler Murray under constant pressure, while the secondary executed well to disrupt passes. Notably, safety Coby Bryant made his mark by returning an interception for a 69-yard touchdown, underscoring a defensive performance that harkened back to the Seahawks’ stronger years.

First-year head coach Mike Macdonald, who previously coordinated the top defense for the Baltimore Ravens, has steered the team from earlier challenges, utilizing strategies that have sharpened their defensive skills. The change was evident against the Cardinals, who entered the game as one of the league’s leading rushing offenses, averaging 149.4 yards per game.

“Three games in a row now we played pretty decent on defense,” Macdonald said. “There is an expectation and standard here throughout the course of our Seahawks history that we’re trying to live up to and build on. So that’s the idea.”

With their record now standing at 6-5, the Seahawks have leveled up with the Cardinals in a tightly contested division, setting the stage for a rematch in Arizona in two weeks.

**Positive Aspects**

The trade that brought linebacker Ernest Jones IV to Seattle last month has clearly made a beneficial impact. Since Jones joined the team, they haven’t allowed a running back to surpass 79 rushing yards in a game. He has consistently topped the team in tackles and has been essential in revitalizing their run defense.

**Areas for Improvement**

On the flip side, the Seahawks’ running game is still struggling. Against the Cardinals, the team only managed a total of 65 rushing yards, with Kenneth Walker III being limited to 41 yards on 16 carries, and Zach Charbonnet contributing 22 yards on six attempts. Walker has not exceeded 100 rushing yards since the season opener, signaling that offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb needs to find fresh strategies to bolster the running game.

**Key Performers**

Williams proved to be a one-man wrecking crew, recording 2.5 sacks along with four quarterback hits, three tackles for loss, and a pass defended. “I thought he was dominant,” Macdonald commented. “I knew he played great and then I looked at the stat line and he played out of his mind.”

The Seahawks ended the game with a total of five sacks, seven quarterback hits, five tackles for loss, and six pass deflections, effectively neutralizing a team that previously averaged 29.3 points per game over their last three outings.

**Concerns**

Despite the victory, quarterback Geno Smith had a mixed performance, throwing for 254 yards and one touchdown, but also turning over the ball at a crucial time during a drive that was poised to increase their lead. His interception on a third-and-6 play at the Arizona 18-yard line effectively halted an 11-play drive. Smith now leads the NFL with 12 interceptions this season, surpassing his interception total from either of the previous two seasons.

“That was a huge drive for us. … Obviously made a terrible mistake down there, something I got to clean up,” Smith reflected. “But it was a big drive. We wanted to put the game ahead at least two scores.”

The offensive line also played a role in the struggles, as guard Anthony Bradford exited the game due to an ankle injury, and the unit allowed Smith to be sacked five times.

**Injury Report**

Macdonald indicated that Bradford is expected to miss next week’s contest.

**Stat Highlight**

Jaxon Smith-Njigba shone with six receptions totaling 77 yards and one touchdown, marking the fourth straight game where he has led the team in catches. He had previously surpassed 100 receiving yards in the last two matchups. “He’s getting open,” Smith noted. “He’s catching the ball. He’s doing a great job in the screen game. All-around great player. I just think the way that teams are playing us coverage-wise, I feel like it’s the ultimate sign of respect.”

**Looking Ahead**

Next, the Seahawks will face the struggling New York Jets this Sunday.

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