Don’t Write Off the Arizona Cardinals, Anything Can Happen in the NFL
By Scott Allen
May 14, 2013; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) runs drills during organized team activities at the Cardinals Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Over the past several years, we’ve seen what parity has done in the NFL. Parity has allowed teams like the Detroit Lions and Houston Texans to make it to the playoffs. It has allowed Cincinnati Bengals into the playoffs as well, and we all know their history. It even allowed the Arizona Cardinals to make a Super Bowl four years ago. The Arizona Cardinals. After reading all these predictions about no matter what the Cards have done in the off-season, they are doomed. I say not so fast.
Anything can happen in today’s NFL. Sure, the Cards are in a loaded division. You can’t even count out the St. Louis Rams. Heck, they had the NFC West’s best divisional record last year at 4-1-1. Most have them finishing third in 2013, but they have as much a chance as the San Francisco 49ers, and Seattle Seahawks. They’ll beat up on each other. Then you always have injuries. Even the best teams can’t avoid them.
What I am saying is, don’t write off the Cardinals for any one reason. I say that just as easily don’t predict success just because of any one reason either. It will take team effort. I believe that’s what the Cards have built. They have built a team that will work together. You could say there are no superstars but then I’d feel like I’m slighting Larry Fitzgerald. However Fitzgerald isn’t your typical superstar. He is a true professional who only cares about team.
No doubt it will be tough to succeed in the NFC West this season for the Cards. There’s no sugar-coating it. However, just sit back and take a few minutes to realize the depth the Cards have created at several positions. I think in the end the critics will unde estimate the job the Cards did in this off-season to prepare to right the ship. I say it does translate into more wins. How many remains to be seen. I’ve got a feeling though this season there will be many more smiles than last.