5 moves the Arizona Cardinals can make to play in Super Bowl 54

<> on January 9, 2019 in Tempe, Arizona.
<> on January 9, 2019 in Tempe, Arizona. /
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GLENDALE, AZ – SEPTEMBER 09: Running back Chris Thompson #25 of the Washington Redskins rushes the football past defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche #90 of the Arizona Cardinals during the second half of the NFL game at State Farm Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. The Redskins defeated the Cardinals 24-6. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ – SEPTEMBER 09: Running back Chris Thompson #25 of the Washington Redskins rushes the football past defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche #90 of the Arizona Cardinals during the second half of the NFL game at State Farm Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. The Redskins defeated the Cardinals 24-6. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

Stop the run

The Cardinals couldn’t stop the run at all in 2018.  It was like they were allergic to tackling opponents running backs.

From week one to week 17, the Cardinals had difficulty stopping the run.  It allowed offenses to run long drives in some cases.  In other cases with missed tackles, it made for quick scores for opponents as well.

A lot of that comes from a couple of areas needing improvement.  The interior defensive line and linebackers.  The Cardinals struggled with each area last season.

Robert Nkemdiche was inconsistent and has never reached his potential.  He also has trouble staying healthy.  Haason Reddick was very inconsistent in 2018, so much so he spent long periods of time on the bench.

Josh Bynes is about the only decent linebacker the Cardinals have left, although Deone Bucannon, if positioned properly, could still make an impact with the departure of Steve Wilks.  However it needs an upgrade big time.