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Arizona Cardinals ready to answer questions about offense

By Jim Koch

GLENDALE, AZ - NOVEMBER 13: Running back David Johnson #31 of the Arizona Cardinals runs during the first half 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: Running back David Johnson #31 of the Arizona Cardinals runs during the first half 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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The 2018 version of the Arizona Cardinals offense should look much different with new coordinator Mike McCoy at the controls

The Arizona Cardinals offense that was run by former head coach Bruce Arians was a fun one to watch. There were many downfield throws, many chances being taken. Arians had a “no risk-it, no biscuit” approach to play-calling that entertained fans for the past five seasons, but ended with his retirement this past January.

The 2018 model of the Arizona offense could look much different. New offensive coordinator Mike McCoy has brought with him to the desert a fresh set of ideas. We got a glimpse of the offense during the preseason, but how much of it we were actually shown is unknown at this point.

It appears that the seven-step drops that former quarterback Carson Palmer had so much success with could be scrapped. Deep dropbacks leave a passer more vulnerable to punishment. And that is something that the Cardinals can absolutely not afford, especially now that Sam Bradford has replaced Palmer as the starting signal-caller.

Bradford, you see, has proven to be quite susceptible to injury. The 30-year old has played in all 16 games just twice during his NFL career. Getting the ball out of his hand quickly is a key in keeping Bradford upright, and some shorter dropbacks could help in that regard.

A good running game could also help keep Bradford healthy. It just so happens that the Cards have one of the best ball-carriers in the league. David Johnson, now back from the wrist injury that sidelined him for most of 2017, promises to have a big role in McCoy’s game plans.

Arizona may very well be operating a vanilla-type scoring attack this fall. Handoffs on first and second down could become the norm. Runs that will hopefully lead to short-yardage situations on third down.

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The new offense will be revealed officially this weekend. The chunk plays that Arians loved so dearly will most likely be few and far between in ’18. Let the McCoy era begin.

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