What the Arizona Cardinals must do to contend in NFC West
By Sion Fawkes
After a strong start, 2020 was Fools Gold for the Arizona Cardinals.
But let’s not rehash on the hash of what could have been in 2020. The Arizona Cardinals collapsed harder than the 2003 Minnesota Vikings (who they ironically kept out of the playoffs that season) and finished 8-8, missing out on the NFL playoffs.
That said, it’s clear the Cardinals still have their work cut out for them if they want to take the next step and improve upon their 8-8 record. Even worse, they’re playing in the NFL’s toughest division. And compared to the Seattle Seahawks, Los Angeles Rams, and San Francisco 49ers, they’re the weakest link.
But hey, teams can go from worst to first any given season. Look at the Washington Football Team. Even the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who weren’t even in the playoffs last season, hoisted the Lombardi Trophy. And technically, the Cardinals would be going from third to first if they win the West.
So it’s possible to see the Cardinals evolve from mediocrity to playoff contender. And, dare we mention it, in contention to win their first championship since 1947. Yeah, it’s been a while, and the Cardinals may be closer than we think.
In the following slides, you’ll find three things they must do if they want to take the next step and contend for the NFC West Crown. These factors range from what they must do in the off-season and on the field. Some may be obvious. Others, more obscure.