Seahawks without key starters in crucial Cardinals matchup

Week nine is here, and while it hasn’t necessarily been the prettiest season so far, the Seahawks can begin to solidify who they really are against a middling Arizona Cardinals team Sunday. Down a struggling Sam Darnold, the offense will be led by backup quarterback Drew Lock. Lock, who is also dealing with an injury, played well earlier this season when Darnold was sidelined with a glute injury. That being said, with questionable offensive playcalling becoming more and more apparent, Lock may have a tough time on Sunday. Add in the offensive line missing both Charles Cross and recent pick-up Quenton Nelson, and Lock may have an even tougher time against a hungry Cardinals team. Then again, this is Drew Lock, and time and time again, it’s proven foolish to doubt him. Plus, with the dramatic shift for Grey Zabel moving from left guard to right guard being less fresh, Zach Charbonnet receiving more reps, and the return of Anthony Bradford, the Seahawks could potentially see some normalcy develop within their offense. On the other side of the ball, the defense is also dealing with some key injuries. Not only will they be without Uchenna Nwosu for another week, but both Leonard Williams and Brandon Pili will not suit up for the Seahawks Sunday. Being down important members will surely affect the defensive line’s ability to pressure back-up quarterback Gardner Minshew, but with fresh new talent in Deven Eastern and a line that’s given up 20 sacks this season , it’s not entirely the end of the world. Injuries aside, the Seahawks need help in the red zone -- on both sides of the ball. If they can hold the Cardinals outside of the red zone, while finding ways to get in it on offense, then the Seahawks can easily walk away with the game. But, if the Seahawks maintain their rather mediocre form from last week’s game against the Bears, then it’ll be time to have some tough conversations. The Seahawks face the Cardinals at Lumen Field Sunday, Nov. 8. Kickoff is set of 1:25 p.m.