The Arizona Cardinals were the National Football Conference’s first team out of the playoffs last year and have looked to bolster their roster this offseason. They’ve seen a few departures but have countered those departures with some nice additions. Now, fans wonder if this team has enough to make the playoffs finally. One of the more interesting teams regarding how they could end up at the end of the year, there are many questions on the Cardinals. Let’s get into some of them.
Will J.J. Watt Return to Stat-Stuffing Form?
False. One of the most notable acquisitions this offseason was Watt going to the Cardinals. Now, everyone is wondering how much of an impact he can make. It’s been three seasons since Watt’s 16 sack season and another two since his second-most recent double-digit year. At first glance, many would think he can return to double-digit form, but it’s a little more complicated than that. The Cardinals run a 3-4 defensive scheme and rely heavily on their outside linebackers to create pressure. Players like Chandler Jones are more of their sack getters than true edge rushers. Watt will be thrust into the inside edge role. This role traditionally is for stopping the run. He’ll definitely be able to do this for the Cardinals, but it doesn’t seem he’ll be able to create much in terms of sack production. However, it will be exciting to see Watt show his leadership in a new locker room, and hopefully will this defense to the playoffs.
Can the Cardinals’ Offense Have Another Great Year?
True. This Arizona team is clearly built on offense. Last year, they ranked in the top-10 in total offense, and it’s a dual attack. While the running backs don’t really stuff the stat sheet, the running game really opens up with Kyler Murray’s legs. This year, they look to get right back to work. To improve, this offense needs to use DeAndre Hopkins a lot better. If they can do this, they should propel themselves into the playoffs if the defense can hold up.
Is Kliff Kingsbury Holding This Defense Back?
True. The Cardinals’ defense is in desperate need of a better scheme. The talent is excellent, and the stats are fine, but they just need to get over a hump. Part of the problem could be their head coach, Kingsbury. He has a strictly offensive approach to the game and really needs to step up his scheming to get over the hump. He’s not terrible defensively, but it’s pretty clear that defensive coordinator Vance Joseph is leading the charge in this respect.
Can the Cardinals Pull it All Together?
True. This team has all the pieces to be a playoff squad next year. Now, it’s just about lacing everything all together. Their stats are good, their talent is good, but they just struggle to win and finish football games at the end of the day. If Arizona doesn’t make the playoffs next year, it will certainly be time to really think about how good a coach Kingsbury is. If they can finally make it, they’ll look to build off that run with the talent they have for the next few years.
Check us out on our socials:
Twitter: @PTSTNews and @TalkPrimeTime
Facebook Page: Prime Time Sports Talk
Join our Facebook Group: Prime Time Sports Talk
Instagram: @ptsportstalk
Follow Charlie Parent on Twitter @Charlie_Parent
Main Image Credit:
Embed from Getty Images
