- Team Overview
- Offensive Line Analysis
- Defensive Line Analysis
- 2024 NFL Season
- Week 12 Review – Vs Seattle Seahawks
- week 10 Review – Vs New York Jets
- Week 9 Review – Vs Chicago Bears
- Week 8 Review – Vs Miami Dolphins
- Week 7 Review – Vs Los Angeles Chargers
- Week 6 Review – Vs Green Bay Packers
- Week 5 Review – Vs San Francisco 49ers
- Week 4 Review – Vs Washington Commanders
- Week 3 Review – Vs Detroit Lions
- Week 2 Review – Vs Los Angeles Rams
- Week 1 Review – Vs Buffalo Bills
- Odds to Win Division and Super Bowl
- Predictions
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 12 Review – Vs Seattle Seahawks
In Week 12, the Arizona Cardinals faced a formidable opponent in the Seattle Seahawks, ultimately succumbing to a 16-6 defeat in a game dominated by defensive prowess. The Cardinals’ defense put forth a commendable effort, managing to keep the Seahawks’ offense largely contained and forcing them to settle for field goals on multiple occasions.
However, Arizona’s offensive struggles were glaring, as they failed to capitalize on key opportunities and were unable to find the end zone throughout the contest. Offensively, the Cardinals faced significant challenges. Quarterback Kyler Murray, still adjusting after returning from injury, was under constant pressure from Seattle’s defensive front. This pressure culminated in a critical interception returned for a touchdown by Seattle’s Coby Bryant, which shifted the game’s momentum decisively. Additionally, Arizona’s ground game was uncharacteristically ineffective, managing only 49 rushing yards against a stout Seahawks defense. These offensive inefficiencies left the Cardinals unable to sustain drives or provide adequate support for their defense.
Looking ahead to Week 13, The Cardinals will face the Minnesota Vikings at State Farm Stadium
week 10 Review – Vs New York Jets
The Arizona Cardinals continued their impressive winning streak, dominating the New York Jets with a convincing 31-6 victory in Week 10, extending their run to four consecutive wins. Quarterback Kyler Murray put on a masterclass performance, leading the Cardinals to an exceptional offensive showing with 0.416 EPA per play and an impressive 7.0 yards per play average.
Murray’s precision was on full display as he broke Carson Palmer’s franchise record for most consecutive completions with 17. The Cardinals’ passing game was firing on all cylinders, with Murray distributing the ball to seven different receivers. James Conner proved to be a versatile threat, leading the team in receiving with 80 yards through the air, while rookie sensation Marvin Harrison Jr. continued to impress with a touchdown reception. The ground game also contributed significantly, with Trey Benson emerging as the team’s leading rusher, complementing Murray’s two rushing touchdowns.
The Cardinals will now enter their bye week, providing a well-deserved rest for the team after their recent string of successes.
Week 9 Review – Vs Chicago Bears
The Arizona Cardinals continued their impressive run in Week 9, securing a dominant 29-9 victory over the Chicago Bears at State Farm Stadium. This win marked their third consecutive victory and improved their record to 5-4, propelling them to the top of the NFC West standings.
The Cardinals’ defense put on a stellar performance, completely shutting down the Bears’ offense. They held Chicago to just 241 total yards and, most notably, prevented them from scoring a single touchdown. This defensive dominance allowed the Cardinals to control the game from start to finish, despite a relatively quiet day from their passing attack. The running back trio of James Conner, Trey Benson, and Emari Demercado combined for an impressive 203 rushing yards. Conner led the charge with another 100+ yard performance, while Demercado provided a game-changing play with a 53-yard touchdown run to end the first half, giving the Cardinals a 12-point lead and all the momentum.
The Cardinals will face the New York Jets at home, aiming to extend their winning streak and solidify their position atop the NFC West
Week 8 Review – Vs Miami Dolphins
The Arizona Cardinals pulled off a thrilling 28-27 victory over the Miami Dolphins in Week 8 of the 2024 NFL season on October 27, 2024, at Hard Rock Stadium. This win improved the Cardinals’ record to 4-4, while the Dolphins dropped to 5-3.
Kyler Murray led the Cardinals’ offense with an impressive performance, completing 26 of 36 passes for 307 yards and two touchdowns. Rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. continued to shine, catching six passes for 111 yards and a touchdown, while tight end Trey McBride had a breakout game with nine receptions for 124 yards. The game featured a controversial safety in the third quarter when a bad snap to Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa went into the end zone. On the injury front, Cardinals defensive lineman Naquan Jones left in the first quarter with a thigh injury but returned in the third, while Dolphins safety Jevon Holland exited in the second quarter with a knee injury and did not return.
The Arizona Cardinals will host the Chicago Bears at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
Week 7 Review – Vs Los Angeles Chargers
The Arizona Cardinals secured a surprising 17-15 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 7 of the 2024 NFL season on Monday Night Football. This win improved the Cardinals’ record to 3-4, while the Chargers fell to 3-3.
Despite the Chargers’ quarterback Justin Herbert throwing for 349 yards, their offense struggled to find the end zone. The Chargers were held to only field goals, failing to score a touchdown throughout the game. Their rushing attack was particularly ineffective, managing just 59 yards on 22 carries against a Cardinals defense that had previously allowed an average of 139.6 rushing yards per game.
The Cardinals’ unexpected triumph marked their first win outside of their division and against a team with a winning record this season. This victory provides a boost to Arizona’s campaign as they prepare to face the Miami Dolphins in their upcoming matchup.
Week 6 Review – Vs Green Bay Packers
The Arizona Cardinals faced a tough challenge facing the Green Bay Packers, the game resulted in a disappointing 34-13 loss for the Cardinals, dropping their record for the season.
Despite the efforts of quarterback Kyler Murray, who completed 22 of 32 passes for 214 yards and managed to connect with Michael Wilson for an 18-yard touchdown, the Cardinals’ offense struggled to find its rhythm throughout the game. The running game was particularly ineffective, with James Conner limited to just 24 yards on seven carries.
The Cardinals’ defense had difficulty containing the Packers’ offensive onslaught, allowing Jordan Love to throw for 258 yards and four touchdowns. The team also faced challenges with discipline, committing 13 penalties for 100 yards and three turnovers. The Cardinals look to regroup and improve their performance, they will face the Los Angeles Chargers at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
Week 5 Review – Vs San Francisco 49ers
The Arizona Cardinals pulled off an impressive 24-23 upset win against the San Francisco 49ers this past weekend. Kyler Murray made a strong comeback, leading the Cardinals to a remarkable second-half performance. The Cardinals completed a total of 342 yards, with 256 passing yards and 86 rushing yards for an average of 5.3 yards per play.
Several players stood out in this thrilling matchup. Kyler Murray made crucial plays, including a pivotal throw to rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. late in the game. James Conner had an outstanding second half, breaking multiple tackles. Defensively, Mack Wilson’s interception of a Brock Purdy pass gave the Cardinals a huge break. For the 49ers, Brandon Aiyuk had his best game of the season, despite the loss.
This upcoming weekend the Cardinals will continue to keep it in the NFC as they take on the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.
Week 4 Review – Vs Washington Commanders
The Arizona Cardinals suffered a crushing defeat in Week 4, falling to the Washington Commanders 42-14 at State Farm Stadium. This loss drops the Cardinals to a 1-3 record for the season. M
On the defensive side, the Cardinals struggled to contain Commanders’ rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who had an impressive outing. Daniels completed 26 of 30 passes for 234 yards and a touchdown, while also adding a rushing touchdown. The Commanders’ ground game, led by Brian Robinson Jr., who rushed for 101 yards on 21 carries and scored a touchdown, further exposed the Cardinals’ defensive weaknesses.
The Arizona Cardinals will face a tough challenge in Week 5 as they travel to Levi’s Stadium to take on the San Francisco 49ers.
Week 3 Review – Vs Detroit Lions
The Arizona Cardinals suffered a disappointing 20-13 loss to the Detroit Lions at State Farm Stadium on September 22, 2024, dropping their record to 1-2 for the season. Kyler Murray showed flashes of his dynamic playmaking ability but faced challenges against a tough Lions defense. The Cardinals’ offense struggled to convert in crucial situations, particularly in the red zone, and was held to just a field goal in the second half.
The offense couldn't find the rhythm. pic.twitter.com/2tsF7690Xu
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) September 23, 2024
Despite a valiant effort from the Cardinals’ defense, which managed to contain Jared Goff and the Lions’ passing attack, they struggled to stop David Montgomery’s ground game. Barton suffered a toe injury and did not return.
Looking ahead to Week 4, the Arizona Cardinals will host the Washington Commanders at State Farm Stadium. This home game presents a crucial opportunity for the Cardinals to address their offensive inconsistencies and defensive lapses from the Lions game.
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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Gambyl Nation Editorial Team: Author
The Gambyl Nation Editorial team are made up of industry betting professionals and sports fans from across North America, Latin America and South America.
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