2016 NFL Power Rankings Week 9: Arizona Cardinals

Oct 30, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive back Leonard Johnson (23) breaks up a two point conversion pass during the fourth quarter intended for Arizona Cardinals wide receiver John Brown (12) at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers defeated the Cardinals 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 30, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive back Leonard Johnson (23) breaks up a two point conversion pass during the fourth quarter intended for Arizona Cardinals wide receiver John Brown (12) at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers defeated the Cardinals 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 30, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Arizona Cardinals outside linebacker Deone Bucannon (20) tackles Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart (28) during the second half at Bank of America Stadium. Carolina won 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 30, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Arizona Cardinals outside linebacker Deone Bucannon (20) tackles Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart (28) during the second half at Bank of America Stadium. Carolina won 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /

17. Arizona Cardinals (3-4-1)

The Cardinals could easily be 6-2.  They also could be 2-6 if not for a good second half against the 49ers and a missed Seahawks field goal in overtime a couple of weeks ago.

The Cardinals really should feel lucky then that 3-4-1 is where they stand considering all the injuries that have mounted for them this season and the subpar play, especially from an inconsistent offense.

The Cardinals offensive line was just plain offensive in the 33-20 loss at Carolina last Sunday. Carson Palmer might have had his best day as a Cardinal quarterback but he’d be the first tot ell you he’d give it all back for a team victory.

The Cardinals bye week couldn’t have come at a better time.  They have time to heal the minor bruises and a chance to think about what needs to change to win more in the second half of the season.

There is likely to be some roster change.  With five of the last eight games on the road, the road to the playoffs will be tough but nowhere near impossible.