NFL Arizona Cardinals

5 Reasons Why the Arizona Cardinals Won’t Win Super Bowl XLIX

5 Reasons Why the Arizona Cardinals Won't Win Super Bowl XLIX

Arizona Cardinals
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The Arizona Cardinals dropped their last two games of the season, both of which came against division opponents. The good news for the Cardinals is that their hot stretch through Week 11 gave them some comfort room, which is why they clinched the No. 5 seed in the NFC. With that said, there are at least five reasons why they will not win Super Bowl XLIX.

5. Inability to Stop the Pass

Inability to Stop the Pass
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5. Inability to Stop the Pass

Inability to Stop the Pass
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Arizona’s defense gave up a whopping 259.5 yards per game through the air this season, which ranked 29th in the NFL. Even though defensive coordinator Todd Bowles had the Cardinals playing at a high level despite all of the injuries, there are some legitimate concerns entering the playoffs. With pass-happy quarterbacks such as Aaron Rodgers, Tony Romo and Matthew Stafford in the mix, Arizona could be in big trouble.

4. Horrible Run Offense

Horrible Run Offense
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4. Horrible Run Offense

Horrible Run Offense
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With a third string quarterback likely to start, the offense must find some balance. Unfortunately, a solid run game has been non-existent during the regular season. In fact, the Cardinals rank 31st in the league with a measly 81.8 rushing yards per game. Not to mention, Arizona running backs found the end zone only six times this season. With the weather turning for the worst, the inability to run the football will be devastating.

3. No Momentum

No Momentum
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3. No Momentum

No Momentum
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As already stated, the Cardinals dropped back-to-back games against the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers to end the season. Clearly, not the way a team should be playing entering the playoffs, especially as a Wild Card. Momentum is everything this time of year. For the Cardinals to have none will be one of the main reasons they could have a rough time taking care of business against the Carolina Panthers.

2. Issues on Road in 2014

Issues on Road in 2014
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2. Issues on Road in 2014

Issues on Road in 2014

Arizona has been dominant at home this season, but unfortunately, they were only 4-4 on the road. Winning on the road in Carolina is certainly achievable in the Wild Card round. However, it is going to Lambeau Field or CenturyLink Field that will be the real issue. The Seahawks and Green Bay Packers combined for a 15-1 record at home during the 2014 regular season.

1. Lack of Quality Quarterback

Lack of Quality Quarterback
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1. Lack of Quality Quarterback

Lack of Quality Quarterback
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The Cardinals are optimistic Drew Stanton will be able to start on Saturday, but an infection in his knee could be the reason he’s done for the season. If that were the case, third stringer Ryan Lindley will get the start. It’s not to say that Lindley is incapable of winning. The reality is he ranks dead last in a playoff quarterback power ranking. The lack of a quality signal caller will definitely be the downfall of the Cardinals this postseaso

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