Cards Have One Week Left to Right the Ship
By Scott Allen
Aug. 24, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA: San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Mathews (24) runs the ball in the first quarter against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
It seems to me that after three preseason games, a team should be steadily improving. However the Arizona Cardinals have proven they are doing the exact opposite. They’ve been steadily declining in performance since the preseason started.
It started with a bang in a 17-0 win over the Green Bay Packers. The offense played well. They probably left a few scores out on the field. They moved the ball and the defense was able to have a goal-line stand and shut the Packers out in the preseason for the first time in almost three decades.
Then there was the Dallas Cowboys game. The defense was great, forcing six turnovers. However only field goals from the offense. The red zone offense completely stalled. It was enough to drive a fan batty.
Of course then you had the debacle this week. Blocked punt, blocked field goal, ridiculous fumbles and laterals, no focus and a complete lack of energy or passion. That last part there has to give concern to the fans. By this point, players should be itching to get on the field, especially this past week when the starters knew they’d all get to play at least a whole half.
I don’t expect to see much this week with a lot of guys sitting or getting limited playing time. So, its up to what gets corrected in practice. Let’s hope the team is ready for the opener on September 8th against the St. Louis Rams.