December 30, 2012; San Francisco, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Aldon Smith (99) tries to rush past Arizona Cardinals tackle D
Now that I have the Arizona Cardinals at 7-5 through the first three quarters of the season, it is time to look at the last quarter of the season. The Cards again have an even amount of home and away games, such as it was in the third quarter of the season. They will end the season at home against the San Francisco 49’ers.
Week 14 – St. Louis Rams
The first game between these two I gave to the Cardinals since it was the season opener. The second tilt I am also going to give to the Cards. Granted the Rams are improved and could as easily sweep the Cards as the Cards could sweep them. However, this is a late season home tilt that could make or break the Cards playoff chances. Cardinals 26 Rams 17
Week 15 – @Tennessee Titans
For some reason I believe the Titans will be ready for this one. It’s a late season road game in an environment that could be chilly this time of the season. The Cards made a late season trip to Tennessee in 2009 and it didn’t turn out well. As you’ll remember, it was the game Kurt Warner had to miss because of his vision and the Cards played sluggishly until late. Matt Leinart almost completed the comeback for the victory. Alas they didn’t. Carson Palmer won’t either. Titans 30 Cardinals 10
Week 16 – @Seattle Seahawks
I see the NFL enjoyed the Hawks December thrashing of the Cards so much last year, they wanted to try it again. They are funny guys at the NFL. I don’t believe it will be as bad this time, but seriously, the Cards can not win in Seattle, even with the upgraded team. At least I don’t believe this team will quit once they fall behind. Not enough. Seahawks 31 Cardinals 13
Week 17 – San Francisco 49’ers
Probably the toughest game to predict because if the Niners have already clinched a playoff spot and/or home field, there is no reason to play anyone of any significance. I truly think that will be the case. I still don’t know though if it will be enough to defeat the defending NFC champs. This game tilts the Cards out of a wild-card position (maybe). It will leave the Cards at 8-8 and out of the playoffs. 49’ers 16 Cardinals 6
So there it is. The Cards appear to be finishing 8-8 in 2013. It is an improvement. Hey who knows, maybe one of these predicted losses turns into victory? It will need to be. In fact, probably going to take 10 wins to get the wild card with Seattle and San Francisco in the same division. They will most likely need to sweep Seattle if they want to get in. I don’t see that happening, at least right now.