Arizona Cardinals: 3 keys to victory over Patriots

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Aug 19, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson (31) runs the ball as San Diego Chargers inside linebacker Denzel Perryman (52) defends during the first quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

Find a balance

The Cardinals will need to be more than a one-trick pony on Sunday night. They need to be able to both throw the ball and run the ball.

It is easier said than done, however against a stingy Patriots defense, it is important to keep them off-balance and guessing at what will happen next.

Sure the Cardinals will throw a lot of running back David Johnson at the Patriots but they will also need to mix in a good dose of Chris Johnson and Andre Ellington behind him. It can’t all come from David Johnson.

Next: Don't beat yourselves

In the passing game, the offensive line is going to need to protect quarterback Carson Palmer and give him time to step into the pocket and find his receivers. The tight ends will also need to be involved. Look for guys like Darren Fells and Jermaine Gresham to have their names called a number of times on Sunday night.

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