Cardinals to start Brissett against Seahawks, sidelining Murray due to foot injury

The Arizona Cardinals will start Jacoby Brissett at quarterback against the Seattle Seahawks, continuing his role after a recent victory over the Dallas Cowboys.

Why it matters: The decision to keep Brissett as the starter reflects both his recent performance and Kyler Murray's ongoing recovery from injury, which could have significant implications for the team's playoff aspirations.

• Brissett led the Cardinals to a 27-17 win over the Cowboys, marking the team's first victory since mid-September.
• Coach Jonathan Gannon had previously indicated that Murray would reclaim his starting position upon recovery but has opted to stick with Brissett for now.

What's new: Brissett’s performance this season has drawn attention, particularly following his successful outing against Dallas.

• In three starts this season, he has averaged 256 passing yards per game, with an impressive 7.7 yards per attempt, tallying six touchdowns to just one interception.
• Conversely, Murray's struggles in five starts show an average of only 170 passing yards per game, with 6.0 yards per attempt, alongside six touchdowns and three interceptions.

Yes, but: While Brissett's form is commendable, the long-term outlook remains uncertain as Murray's potential return looms.

• Murray has been sidelined since October 5 due to a foot injury, with recovery timelines estimated between four to eight weeks, including the risk of setbacks.
• As the Cardinals navigate this critical phase of their season, consistency at the quarterback position could be crucial in maintaining team morale and performance.

What to watch: As Brissett continues to lead the offense, observers should monitor how effectively he adapts to different defensive schemes, particularly against teams like the Seahawks.

• Successful offensive execution will hinge on Brissett's ability to leverage the Cardinals' wide receiver core and establish a balanced running game.
• Defensive alignments from opponents like Seattle, which typically employ a hybrid scheme, may test Brissett's decision-making under pressure.

The bottom line: The Cardinals are at a crossroads with their quarterback situation, balancing immediate success with future potential as they navigate through injuries and inconsistent performances.

• Gannon's decision to stick with Brissett speaks volumes about the coaching staff's confidence in him, but the looming presence of Murray adds an element of uncertainty to the team's direction.
• Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching this unfolding dynamic as the season progresses.