Cardinals Face Serious Challenges Unlike Rams’ Minor Issues | Opinion
As the Arizona Cardinals face mounting challenges, the margin between celebration and despair grows thinner. With a daunting match-up against the Los Angeles Rams on the horizon, the Cardinals are now wrestling with significant issues that go beyond mere setbacks. Their recent struggles cast a long shadow over the team’s strategy and future.
Current State of the Cardinals
The Cardinals, currently holding a 3-9 record, are in dire straits. They have lost four consecutive games and nine out of their last ten. This lackluster performance has left them six wins behind each of their division rivals. They were officially eliminated from playoff contention after a narrow 20-17 defeat to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 13.
- Current Record: 3-9
- Lost 4 consecutive games
- Lost 9 out of last 10 matches
- Officially eliminated from playoff contention
Severe Comparisons with the Rams
In stark contrast, the Rams, who suffered a recent setback against the Carolina Panthers, remain a strong contender with a record of 9-4. Despite their loss, they maintain playoff aspirations. Coach Sean McVay emphasized the value of adversity, a sentiment that seems foreign to the struggling Cardinals.
Challenges Ahead
Head Coach Jonathan Gannon, who has an overall record of 15-31 with the team, is determined to bounce back. “We have to be ready to compete against the Rams,” he stated. However, the Cardinals’ inability to convert close games into wins has frustrated fans and stakeholders alike.
Of their nine losses this season, seven were decided by four points or fewer. Injuries and a lack of consistent performance from key players like quarterback Kyler Murray have further complicated their situation. With Murray potentially on the way out, the organization must consider their next steps carefully.
Potential for Improvement
There are signs of hope for the Cardinals. Veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett, since taking over in Week 6, ranks first in the NFL for completions and passing yards. The team also boasts young talent in receivers such as Trey McBride and Marvin Harrison Jr. With a few strategic acquisitions, particularly on the offensive line and at running back, the Cardinals may yet find a path forward.
- Quarterback Jacoby Brissett’s Stats since Week 6:
- Completions: 204
- Passing Yards: 2,188
- First Downs Passing: 106
- 300-Yard Passing Games: 4
Looking Ahead
The Cardinals must confront their “real” problems head-on. With significant changes likely necessary in the offseason, Gannon and general manager Monti Ossenfort may require a strategic reassessment to truly address the conditions that have led to such disappointing results.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Cardinals certainly face a daunting challenge in rebuilding and regaining competitiveness in the fiercely contested NFC West. Whether they can turn their misfortunes around remains uncertain, but in the NFL, hope springs eternal, and fresh strategies may yet offer redemption.
