The Arizona Cardinals were on their way to making a run at the NFC West title before injuries derailed the team. First Carson Palmer went down. Then Drew Stanton. Not surprisingly, third stringer Ryan Lindley struggled. Now with Palmer back and healthy, the Cardinals are ready to look like the team that started 9-1. Here are four reasons why the Arizona Cardinals will win the NFC West this season.
Good Ground Game
I'm not expecting much out of Chris Johnson, but the Cardinals should still have a solid rushing attack. Andre Ellington will be healthy this year and he's got talent. Third round pick David Johnson is a bigger back who can share carries with Ellington if needed. The two make for a solid combo. Anything Johnson contributes is a bonus.
Strong Secondary
Patrick Peterson is one of the best CBs in the NFL and still hasn't reached his ceiling. Justin Bethel could be in for a breakout season. The safety position is deep and talented. Tony Jefferson is solid at strong safety after improving last season. Rashad Johnson was a starter all last season and played well. Deone Bucannon was last year's first round pick and should be better this season. Tyrann Mathieu can play safety or nickel back.
Bruce Arians
Arians has won Coach of the Year in two of the last three seasons. He's a heck of a coach that gets the most out of his players. Arizona needs him to make a run this season.
Healthy Carson Palmer
Palmer HAS to be healthy this season if the Cardinals want to win the NFC West. He's the most important player on the team. Palmer was having a great season before getting hurt. If he stays healthy this year, the Cardinals will have a great season.
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