Chuck Todd of The Hotline/National Journal lays part of the blame for Talent's perilous hold on his Senate seat at the feet of Governor Matt Blunt.

From the Hotline's Senate Rankings: [1]

11  ARIZONA
 Jon Kyl (R)  Last Ranking: 11  
  
Ironically, Jon Kyl is probably benefiting from the GOP's loss in the 2002 governor's race. Just ask Mike DeWine and Jim Talent how unpopular governors are helping to drag down incumbent senators this cycle. Tip Sheet 

While that's partly true, a major portion of the mess that Talent finds himself is of his own doing.