Raising Zona
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Arizona Cardinals’ general manager will have hands full

By Mark A. Hernandez

GLENDALE, AZ - NOVEMBER 13: General manager Steve Keim of the Arizona Cardinals talks on the sideline before the start of the NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers at University of Phoenix Stadium on November 13, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals beat the 49ers 23-20. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ - NOVEMBER 13: General manager Steve Keim of the Arizona Cardinals talks on the sideline before the start of the NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers at University of Phoenix Stadium on November 13, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals beat the 49ers 23-20. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images) /
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With the Arizona Cardinals officially eliminated from playoff contention for the second consecutive year, the team will now have to address a handful of questions heading into the 2018 season.

Ten quarters. That’s how long it’s been since the Cardinals have scored a touchdown. And unless you have Phil Dawson on your fantasy team, there isn’t much to be proud of if you’re a fan.

The inept offense continued to show its ugly face this past Sunday in Landover, MD, as placekicker Phil Dawson accounted for all 15 points against the Washington Redskins. That, despite the defense putting forth another impressive performance, and the offense controlling the ball for 36:16 of total possession.

Quarterback Blaine Gabbert, who has been auditioning for his NFL future, did not help his own cause on Sunday, either. When he wasn’t getting harassed by the Redskins’ defense and had time to make relatively easy throws, he could not execute. Which was quite evident on third-downs, as the Cardinals could only convert 4-of-19 attempts.

It was also reported earlier this week that Head Coach Bruce Arians will make the move back to Drew Stanton against the New York Giants. With the move, it seems Gabbert’s future with the franchise will no longer come to fruition.

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There are only two games left in the season, but there are many questions that still need answers. Will Bruce Arians, Carson Palmer and Larry Fitzgerald return? Will Steve Keim revamp his receiver corps? Will the Cardinals still be considered a contender in 2018? And will Arians’ staff remain intact?

General Manager Steve Keim grew up wanting to become an NFL GM someday. 2018 will certainly be his litmus test and where he earns his pay. During his weekly radio appearance on Arizona Sports 98.7, Keim said, “I take it personal.” He also added, “I apologize to our fans and everybody in our organization.”

Taking responsibility as a GM shows great character in the man but actions will save his legacy and his career in Arizona. Keim has done an admirable job since taking over as the GM in 2013.

He’s had a few misses in the draft, but overall has assembled a quality team. And despite injuries (13 players placed on IR this year), he’s kept things in order, but depth will be imperative heading into next season.

“Moving forward we have a lot of work to. It’s going to a busy off-season.”

Busy indeed, as Cardinal fans have grown impatient and frustrated as they are once again saying: Always next year.

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