Jennifer Stewart-US PRESSWIRE
Some people may ask, why seven? Well, the Arizona Cardinals are going to have to do more than five to win on Sunday against the New England Patriots. The players on the Patriots may not have that much more talent, but QB Tom Brady brings his team together like nobody that plays today. Whether it’s offense, defense, or special teams Brady makes sure they’re there for one reason, and that reason is to win. So, here are seven key things the Cardinals need to do right in order to win.
1. Don’t let the legend of Tom Brady scare you
Yes, it’s true, Brady is really good at what he does, but at the same time, Brady wins more games without stepping onto the field than any other quarterback in the league. The Cardinals need to keep a level head and play their game. Of course, they do need to play their game a little better.
2. Slow down Rob Gronkowski
The Cardinals are going to have a tough time stopping Gronkowski, but they still can slow him down by keeping him out of the endzone. Gronkowski is a big target, so covering him in the open field is going to be hard, but inside the redzone, it may be possible. The Cardinals need to play like they did last week, against the Seattle Seahawks on the final goal line stand when they are inside the red zone all game long.
3. Try to run the ball
This is going to be hard, but keeping a balanced attack is how they are going to have to play this year or they will start losing games in bunches. Whether it’s Beanie Wells or Ryan Williams they have to keep the ball on the ground 20 times on Sunday.
4. No plays over 30 yards
Tom Brady has a gun for a throwing arm. The Cardinals need to toe that fine line between protecting plays over the top and not letting too many mid-range passes find their way into the hands of New England receivers.
5. Give up less than 75 yard rushing
The Cardinals did an okay job of stopping Marshawn Lynch last week, but they will need a better than repeat performance to beat a superior team.
6. Intercept Brady twice
Creating turnovers may not break Brady’s confidence, but at least it will frustrate him enough for the Cardinals to have a chance.
7. No turnovers
Turnovers can be huge momentum changers. The Cardinals will need to take care of the ball without being too cautious. Kevin Kolb should not be afraid to stretch the Patriots defense, but also never hesitate to throw the ball away.
There you have it. Seven key things for the Cardinals to win. It’s a tall order, but if they can do all seven they will win.
