Team Overview
The Arizona Cardinals enter the 2024/2025 NFL season with a focus on rebuilding and development, following a challenging 4-13 record last year. Under head coach Jonathan Gannon, the Cardinals are looking to leverage their young talent and strategic offseason acquisitions to improve their competitiveness in the NFC West. The return of quarterback Kyler Murray, who is expected to be fully recovered from his ACL injury, is a key storyline as the team aims to make strides forward. With a roster infused with promising rookies and experienced veterans, the Cardinals are poised to show growth and resilience this season.
Offensive Line Analysis
The Cardinals have taken steps to bolster their offensive line, which is crucial for protecting Kyler Murray and supporting the team’s offensive ambitions. The line features notable additions such as Jonah Williams, who joins Paris Johnson Jr. to form a solid tackle duo. Johnson, a first-round pick from 2023, has shown potential as a blind-side protector but has been moved to right tackle, a position where Williams struggled during his final season in Cincinnati. The interior line includes Evan Brown and Will Hernandez, providing a mix of experience and reliability. This revamped line is essential for facilitating the Cardinals’ running game, led by James Conner and rookie Trey Benson, and for giving Murray the time needed to connect with his receiving corps, including standout rookie Marvin Harrison Jr.
Defensive Line Analysis
Defensively, the Cardinals have focused on improving a unit that struggled significantly last season. The team has added depth with the acquisitions of Bilal Nichols, Justin Jones, and Khyiris Tonga, aiming to enhance their run defense and pass-rushing capabilities. The defensive line is led by established players like Zach Allen, who will be expected to anchor the unit. While the defense remains a work in progress, the Cardinals have invested in young talent through the draft, hoping to infuse energy and skill into a group that ranked among the lowest in the league last year. The development of these players will be critical in a division that features strong offensive opponents.
2024 NFL Season
Week 2 Review – Vs Los Angeles Rams
The Arizona Cardinals dominated the Los Angeles Rams in Week 2 with a resounding 41-10 victory at home. Quarterback Kyler Murray put on a stellar performance, achieving a perfect 158.3 passer rating by completing 17 of 21 passes for 266 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions. Murray’s exceptional play made him only the third Cardinals quarterback since 1960 to achieve this feat. Rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. had a breakout game, recording 130 yards and two touchdowns in the first quarter alone.
The game was so lopsided that backup quarterback Clayton Tune took over for Murray in the fourth quarter. In recognition of Murray’s historic performance, his jersey and a game ball from Week 2 will be displayed at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, marking only the second time in franchise history that a Cardinals quarterback has achieved a perfect passer rating.
In Week 3, the Arizona Cardinals will face off against the Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys, coming off a strong start to their season, will present a formidable challenge for the Cardinals. This matchup will be a true test of Arizona’s offensive prowess and defensive capabilities, as they look to build on their impressive Week 2 performance and improve their record to 2-1.
Week 1 Review – Vs Buffalo Bills
In their Week 1 matchup, the Arizona Cardinals struggled against the Buffalo Bills, falling 34-28 despite a strong start. The Cardinals initially led 17-3, but the Bills rallied to secure the win. Quarterback Josh Allen played a crucial role for Buffalo, scoring two rushing touchdowns, including a notable leap into the end zone in the fourth quarter. Allen did sustain a left hand injury during the play but managed to finish the game, with postgame evaluations suggesting no serious damage.
Looking ahead, the Cardinals face a challenging matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. Both teams will need to regroup and refine their strategies after their Week 1 performances. The Cardinals will be aiming to bounce back from their loss, while the Rams will look to secure their first win of the season.
Odds to Win Division and Super Bowl
– Odds to Win NFC West: +1300, indicating they are considered underdogs in a competitive division.
– Odds to Win Super Bowl: +10000, suggesting a 1% chance, which places them among the long shots for the championship.
Predictions
– Overall Record: The Cardinals are projected to finish with a 5-12 record, reflecting the ongoing challenges of rebuilding and the strength of their schedule.
– Playoff Chances: With odds of +300 to make the playoffs, the Cardinals face a difficult path to postseason contention, requiring significant improvement and consistency.
– Super Bowl Chances: Winning the Super Bowl is unlikely this season, given their long odds and the need for substantial growth across the roster.
In summary, the Arizona Cardinals are entering the 2024/2025 season with a focus on development and future potential. The team’s success will largely depend on the health and performance of Kyler Murray, as well as the effectiveness of their revamped offensive and defensive lines. While immediate playoff contention may be challenging, the Cardinals are laying the groundwork for a brighter future as they navigate a transitional period in their franchise history.
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