Every once in a while, the stars align for the less fortunate NFL team, allowing them a shot at the playoffs or even a Super Bowl. Some, like the Patriots, use it to spawn a run of success. Some, like the Browns and Falcons, can only hope to point to it in future years as the coach’s office empties yet again. In any event, this year’s lucky team is… Arizona.
Yes, I said it. The Arizona Cardinals share many of the same signs as the Patriots and others, each combining to form the equation that has spawned so many. In this article, we will break down the piece of the puzzle and where else it has been used. Let’s take a look, shall we?
No. 1: Coach that was successful elsewhere yet left or couldn’t keep his job. Many, including myself, would argue that Dennis Green did a wonderful job just going 7-9 in his last year at Minnesota. When a Pro Bowl tackle and the heart of your team die, as did Korey Stringer, you can’t expect players to remain focused. Even if you could, you really can’t fire a guy for one bad season after leading your team to the playoffs and a conference title game the previous two seaons. The 2002-03 Falcons (Dan Reeves; reached divisional playoffs), 2002-03 Bucs (Jon Gruden; won Supoer Bowl), 2003-04 Cowboys (Bill Parcells; made playoffs) and 2003-04 Colts (Tony Dungy; reached AFC Championship Game) all shared this trait.
No. 2: Veteran of high repute in impact position. Emmitt Smith has not played well these past few years, but he’s still worked through injury and played hard. Expect much of one of the game’s greatest running backs. The early- decade Raiders (Tim Brown, Jerry Rice) exemplify this section.
No. 3: Little-known QB heads talented offense. Josh McCown’s first year as a starter was a little shaky, but what could you expect after backing up Jake Plummer, one of the league’s most talented signal-callers? Plus, he has Larry Fitzgerald, possibly the most mature rookie in recent history, last year’s Rookie of the year Anquan Boldin, and the perennially productive Bryant Johnson. 1999-00 Rams (Kurt Warner; won Super Bowl), 2000-01 Ravens (Trent Dilfer;won Super Bowl) 2001-02 Patriots (Tom Brady; won Super Bowl) and 2002-03 Bucs (Brad Johnson; won Super Bowl). There are more, but I don’t think I need to mention more when I’ve already got four champions.
That’s three strikes. The rest of the NFL better watch out.
4 replies on “It’s Time in Tempe”
Not Sold Maybe the Cardinals have proior history on their side, but what evidence is there to back up your case. Sure they have Fitzgerald but thats about it. We dont know if their young QB can perform at this level. Where is their defense? they have no offense or defense. They may score one TD a game to Fitzgerald and thats about it. No running game, not much pass, no defense, no special teams, no defense, no nothing.
Emmit is done Emmit Smith has been done ever since he left the Cowboys, his best years are far behind him. He should’ve retired after he left the Cowboys. Smith can only mentor at this stage, he is all washed up. Boldon has proven to be the next big loudmouth in the game. All he did was create trouble last year. They have no productive players that are mature enough to lead a team. Mayne Larry can in a few years but not now. The Raiders havea better chance of making the playoffs and that’s not saying much.
Cards I agree that Green’s experience will make a difference. The history of how he left the Vikes is meaningless, though.
Emmitt may still contribute in a leadership role, but his days of being worth a damn are long gone. If I remember correctly his yards per carry last year was a whopping 2.8 yds. Emmitt should have quit after 2001.
Calling Dilfer and Brad Johnson “little known” is a stretch. They were both known, they just hadn’t produced much of note.
I also agree that the Cards will have a good year and with a little luck could even surprise. I just don’t think the items you lend weight to have anything to do with their coming success.
Cards in playoffs…maybe Not sure I’m going to jump on the Cards band wagon just let, but who knows in the NFL. I think Denny Green will turn around the offense this year if McCown can provide solid quarterbacking, but the defense is another story. I think Arizona needs more talent on that side of the ball, so the playoffs might have to wait a year or two.