There wasn't a point in this season where I didn't think they could turn it around and make the playoffs. I am surprised, however, that the #1 seed and HFA is within reach. After the loss to Kansas City with a red hot Cardinals team next up (with Stanton fully healthy), I thought Arizona, with a three game lead and only one loss, was a near lock for the NFC West crown.
But I always believed that Seattle would make the post season. Hell, they had already notched wins over Denver and Green Bay. I knew they could beat anybody, but just needed to get over the Harvin debacle.
In hindsight, I really don't think Ellington and Carson would have been the difference for the Cardinals. Dockett and Washington are a different story though.