Pete Carroll took a chance on the troubled linebacker from West Virginia.
Pete Carroll took a chance on the troubled linebacker from West Virginia. Reuters

Rookie quarterback Russell Wilson continues his compelling story as the Seattle Seahawks battle NFC West rival Arizona Cardinals Sunday at University of Phoenix Stadium.

Wilson wrestled the starting quarterback spot from veteran Matt Flynn during the preseason, despite the big contract the Seahawks gave to the former Green Bay Packers back-up.

The former Wisconsin standout, who Seattle drafted in the third round this year, posted 536 passing yards and five touchdowns in the preseason, contributing to the Seahawks' 4-0 record.

Aiding the rookie will be veteran running back Marshawn Lynch, who rushed for 1,204 yards and 12 touchdowns last season. Lynch was listed as questionable for Sunday's game but is expected to play.

Arizona's starting quarterback Jon Skelton also won over coaches with his play during training camp and preseason. Skelton took over for Kevin Kolb in eight of the Cardinals final nine games last season and went 6-2.

Skelton will seek out All-Pro receiver Larry Fitzgerald, who actually contributed more last season when Skelton was under center. Fitzgerald made 80 receptions for 1,411 yards and eight touchdowns in 2011, including six games with 100+ yards receving.

Arizona cornerback Greg Toler and running back Beanie Wells are listed as questionable Sunday. Running back LaRod Stephens-Howling and linebacker O'Brien Schofield are listed as probable.

The contest begins at 4:25pm eastern time and will be shown by FOX, or watch a live stream online by purchasing NFL Sunday Ticket Max.

Betting Odds: Seattle is favored by 3 points.

Prediction: Wilson is capable of making plays in the air and with his legs, which could cause problems for a weak Arizona defense. Skelton must make smart decisions and find Fitzgerald as often as possible for any success against the Seahawks up-and-coming defense.

Predicted Score: Seattle 24, Arizona 17