Aug 29, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Arizona Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians during the preseason game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field. The Cardinals defeated the Broncos 32-24. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
When the ESPN preseason power rankings came out, the Arizona Cardinals were ranked 26th. When the week one rankings came out, there was no movement. The Cards were still 26th. Clearly, the ESPN writers thought very little of what they saw in the preseason of the Cards.
The Cards could have finished lower I suppose. However given who they believe is better, it does show what little respect they still get. No one outside of Arizona believes in Carson Palmer or Rashard Mendenhall or Bruce Arians. Personally, I think all three can be difference makers.
The ranking could also mean the writers are holding steady until the regular season gets going. I would accept that. I think after four preseason games, maybe we don’t really know what we are going to see from the Cards? They believe more in the Carolina Panthers. They believe more in the Kansas City Chiefs. They believe more in the Miami Dolphins.
What it comes down to, again though, is the offensive line. No one thinks the Cards can win without a line in front of Palmer. I disagree. Yes, they need an average line but with a guy who can get rid of the ball and make quick decisions, something Kevin Kolb and John Skelton couldn’t do on a consistent basis, I would expect a little more thought into what the Cards accomplished in the off-season.
However, it really does come down to what happens in the regular season. I say fine. Let’s be that surprise team. I’m good with that and then when the Cards have won some games, then maybe eyes will open? Well, ok, who am I kidding, the Cards will make the playoffs and still no one will believe in them outside of Arizona. At least I know Birdgang will represent and continue to sell games out and continue to support the team, win or lose.