Arizona Cardinals: Five keys to winning NFC West

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January 1, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Justin Bethel (28) runs the ball for a touchdown after intercepting a pass against the Los Angeles Rams during the second half at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Secondary

No area of the team was more scrutinized last season than the Cardinals secondary. They still have unresolved issues at cornerback.

The Cardinals ended up having to start a rookie in Brandon Williams opposite of Patrick Peterson last season. It didn’t start out so well for him.

They replaced him with Marcus Cooper, who initially started well but also struggled at times down the stretch. Now this preseason they basically find themselves in the same position.

Williams has been said to be improving. They also drafted Rudy Ford out of Auburn. Let’s also not forget the improving Justin Bethel. All could make a run at starting in 2017.

At safety, the hope is Tyrann Mathieu is back to 100 percent and ready to get back to himself. The Cardinals also brought in veteran Antoine Bethea and drafted Budda Baker out of Washington.

Harlan Miller who finished out 2016 strong will attempt to have a stronger sophomore campaign. Tyvon Branch also was re-signed and will be in the mix once again.

For the Cardinals to succeed defensively this season, the secondary has to do a better job. They were beaten too many times last year.

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