SEAHAWKS at CARDINALS
8:15 p.m., Cards by 1 ½, 43
HANK’S HONEYS: The wrong team may be favored. The Cardinals have been inconsistent at best and playing below expectations in general while the Seahawks have been riding strong performances by their special teams and defense. Kyler Murray, in particular, has underachieved, averaging just over 180 passing yards per game. After being stifled by a strong Niners D, he might struggle again here against a defense that hasn’t allowed more than 17 ppg while adding TDs of its own. RB James Conner out for the season with an ankle injury and Murray will have to carry the offense alone. Sam Darnold has hit his stride and looks like the QB who led the Vikings into the playoffs. He’ll be a step up for the Cardinals, who have faced an unimpressive QB lineup of Spencer Rattler, Bryce Young and Mac Jones. Seattle’s running game has yet to break out but Kenneth Walker III has been very good near the goal line and seems ready for a big day. Recent history, too, favors Seattle. The Seahawks have seven straight SU wins over Big Red, including two blowout victories a year ago. The Cardinals have been good at home but the Seahawks have won four of their last five road games SU. We’re also leaning under given the strength of the two defensive units.
IF I WERE A BETTING MAN: Seahawks and the under.
