The Arizona Cardinals were bounced in the NFC Championship game last year by the Carolina Panthers. It was an impressive season, but they are hoping to build on it this season and make a run to the Super Bowl.
Bruce Arians is widely considered to be one of the best head coaches in the NFL and he is looking to add to his legacy this season. He knows how special of a team the Cardinals have put together. If they play up to their full potential, there is nothing holding them back from winning the NFC West division once again making a deep run in the playoffs.
Looking ahead at the upcoming 2016 season, the Cardinals will have to be nearly perfect to win the NFC.
Outside of the Cardinals, the Green Bay Packers, Carolina Panthers, and Seattle Seahawks are all going to be powerhouses. All three of those teams will be difficult to beat. That being said, we are still in preseason action and the Cardinals need to take first things first.
What three things should the Cardinals and their fan base keep an eye out for in particular tonight against the San Diego Chargers in their second preseason game?
Who Will Take Control of the Backup QB Position?
Drew Stanton and Matt Barkley are both looking to earn the backup quarterback job behind Carson Palmer. Both quarterbacks are capable of winning the job, although many believe that Stanton will get it. It will be interesting to see what kind of production both backup quarterback candidates put up this week.
Is Andre Ellington Finally Back to Star Caliber Form?
Just a couple short years ago, Andre Ellington was expected to break out as a star in the NFL. He has suffered some injuries throughout his career, but broke out with 41 yards and a touchdown on just three carries last week. Ellington may get more run this week and it’ll be interesting to see if he is finally back to star caliber form for the Cardinals.
How Does the Pass Rush Look?
Last week in their loss to the Oakland Raiders, Arizona didn’t record a single sack. Star players aren’t playing very much, but not recording one sack is a bit strange. It will be interesting to see whether the Cardinals can get more of a pass rush going this week against the Chargers.
What are you looking to see from the Cardinals this evening against the Chargers? Do you think they will end up winning the NFC and making it to Super Bowl 51? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below!
