Arizona Cardinals’ hopes alive despite brutal tie
By Jim Koch
Although a hard-fought battle with the Seattle Seahawks produced only a disappointing tie the Arizona Cardinals remain contenders
Being a fan of the Arizona Cardinals can be a heart-wrenching experience. An organization that has given it’s fans a ton more lows than highs can produce that effect. This past Sunday night’s depressing tie with the hated Seattle Seahawks contributed to the misery.
But keep your heads up Cards’ fans. Despite the opinions of many so-called “experts “, the tie wasn’t as damaging as some have been led to believe .
If the Cardinals defeat the struggling Carolina Panthers and Seattle loses at the New Orleans Saints, Arizona moves up. With that scenario the Cards would suddenly be just a half of a game out of the NFC West lead.
Arizona’s ascending defense, combined with the rushing of running back David Johnson, gives them a good chance of beating Carolina. There’s also a decent possibility that Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who’s very effective in the Superdome, will deal Seattle a loss.
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The Cardinals’ defense is playing at a high level right now. The acquisition of linebacker Chandler Jones is bearing much fruit. His presence seems to have elevated the play of both linebackers Markus Golden and Kevin Minter.
Last year’s postseason exposed a weakness at the cornerback position opposite cornerback Patrick Peterson. That appears to have been addressed superbly with the arrival of cornerback Marcus Cooper. He’s proven to be above-average in coverage and has also exhibited excellent play-making chops.
The offense is on the verge of an awakening. Although drives bogged down last Sunday night, they were able to move the ball impressively. Quarterback Carson Palmer in particular was money during the overtime period, connecting on big third-down throws.
Johnson may be the best running back in the NFL. After years, the club finally has an offensive line that’s adept at creating running lanes. They’ve also provided more than adequate time for Cards’ quarterbacks to make their throws.
Granted, there isn’t much room for error. But player for player Arizona may be the best team in the NFC West. There’s nothing more left to do but prove it.