Arizona Cardinals: Can They Be a Top 10 Defense?

Jun. 11, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA: Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Darnell Dockett does running drills during mini camp at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Arizona Cardinals’ defense has had its ups and downs these past few seasons. The main reason for this inconsistency is due to former defensive coordinator, Ray Horton not using his personal to their full potential.

The defense has the ability to shut down the opposing offense, take over the game that they’re playing, and win the game that they’re in with very little help from the offense. The defense is the reason the Cardinals won five games last season, instead of only winning two and losing more then 11.

Their ranking last year was 12th overall, allowing 22.3 points a game (17th), 200.8 pass yards (5th), and 137 rushing yards (28th). Better yet, they were ranked third in the red zone and takeaways, so with a new scheme in place to maximize the players strength, I’d look for those rankings to improve.

Darnell Dockett is going to get more one-on-one situations, allowing him to become the dominating player that he is. The front office went out and signed a solid group of guys for depth to the roster and with a consistent rotation, they will stay fresh all year.

If they pick up the new scheme quickly and trust one another to do their job, then I would expect them to improve upon those numbers from last season.

With them being ranked 12th overall last season, the new scheme and depth, I wouldn’t be surprised, at all, if they become a top five defense, then it will be up to the offense to put points up on the board.