SALEM, OR — The Arizona Cardinals‘ season was a rollercoaster of highs and lows, ultimately culminating in a disappointing finish. With a record of 6-11, the Cardinals found themselves at the bottom of the NFC West standings, marking the second consecutive year they’ve missed the playoffs since their last postseason appearance in Season 26.
Team Performance
- Offense: The Cardinals’ offense showed sparks of brilliance but lacked consistency. Quarterback Kyler Murray threw for 3,847 yards with 28 touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. However, his 21 interceptions highlighted a need for better decision-making. Leonard Fournette led the rushing attack with 1,106 yards, but the team’s overall ground game struggled, ranking 17th in the league.
- Defense: Defensively, the Cardinals had challenges, particularly in the secondary. While there were standout individual performances, the unit as a whole couldn’t consistently contain opposing offenses.
Key Players
- Kyler Murray (QB): Murray’s dynamic playmaking ability was evident, but turnovers were a concern.
- Leonard Fournette (HB): Fournette was a workhorse for the Cardinals, providing a reliable option in the backfield.
- Marquise Brown (WR): Marquise Brown emerged as a top target, amassing 1,047 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns.
- Budda Baker (SS): Budda Baker‘s presence in the secondary was a bright spot, leading the team in overall defensive performance.
Season Highlights
- The Cardinals had impressive wins against teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Rams, showcasing their potential.
- The development of young talents, particularly on offense, was a positive takeaway.
Areas for Improvement
- Turnover Differential: Reducing turnovers, especially in crucial moments, will be a key focus.
- Defensive Consistency: The defense needs to find ways to be more consistent, particularly against high-powered offenses.
- Injury Management: The team was hampered by injuries at key positions, affecting their overall performance.
Looking Ahead
As the Cardinals prepare for the next season, the focus will be on building around their core talents, particularly on offense, and addressing the defensive shortcomings. The potential is there for a turnaround, but it will require strategic adjustments and perhaps some key acquisitions in the offseason.
Conclusion
The Arizona Cardinals’ season was a tale of unfulfilled potential. While there were individual successes and promising moments, the team couldn’t find the consistency needed to be a playoff contender. The upcoming offseason will be crucial for the Cardinals as they aim to return to their winning ways and make a push for the postseason.
