Arizona Cardinals vs. Carolina Panthers Pick & Prediction DECEMBER 22nd 2024

Preview and Prediction

The Arizona Cardinals view themselves as being in a crucial situation during the final stretch of the season.

This will be especially true on Sunday when they travel to Charlotte, N.C. to face the Carolina Panthers.

"From here on out, we must win every game and that is our mindset going into every match," said Cardinals offensive tackle Jonah Williams. "There is definitely a sense of urgency."

After breaking a three-game losing streak with a 30-17 victory over the New England Patriots last weekend, the Cardinals (7-7) are in the hunt for a playoff spot in the NFC.

Meanwhile, the Panthers (3-11) have lost four consecutive games and currently hold the third-worst record in the NFL. Sunday's game will be their final home game of the season.

"We have another challenge ahead of us," said Panthers coach Dave Canales. "They will keep coming at us."

Carolina has been on the losing end of close games against division leaders Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Philadelphia before falling 30-14 to the Dallas Cowboys last week.

However, Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon believes that the Panthers' recent turnover-filled performance can be overlooked when evaluating their overall performance.

"I think if you look at their last six games, they have played really well," Gannon said. "I think they have turned a corner. We will have to play our best if we want to win."

Panthers quarterback Bryce Young had a rough game against Dallas, but he had been playing well leading up to that game. Gannon noted the creativity of the Panthers' offense, particularly with Young, a second-year quarterback.

"I think he has taken a step forward in terms of making plays," Gannon said. "He is also very mobile, which is a real threat."

However, Young's four turnovers last week brought his season total to nine interceptions and eight touchdowns. He has also rushed for three touchdowns.

"I am hoping that Bryce will continue to improve and execute our game plan," Canales said. "I want him to be a special player when called upon."

The Cardinals made some significant moves off the field that could benefit them in the long run, including contract extensions for safety Budda Baker, running back James Conner, and center Hjalte Froholdt. These moves demonstrate a high level of commitment from both the players and the team. Baker has been a team captain for five seasons.

"I think they help keep everyone on the same page and they are top-notch players," Gannon said. "They are also great people, and that is the type of players we want to build our team around."

Conner leads the Cardinals in rushing yards with 973 this season. He is coming off a 110-yard performance against the Patriots, his second-highest total of the season and his fifth game with over 100 rushing yards.

Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard surpassed 1,000 rushing yards earlier this month, but he was held to just 32 yards on the ground last week. Fellow running back Raheem Blackshear (chest) was a full participant in practice on Wednesday.

On the defensive side, Panthers linebackers Trevin Wallace and Claudin Cherelus have been placed on injured reserve, creating an opportunity for other players to step up.

"This could be a great chance for other guys to show what they can do," Canales said.

The Cardinals have also made some changes to their roster, particularly on special teams. Kicker Matt Prater is eligible to return after missing the last few games due to knee surgery, and punter Michael Palardy has been added to the roster.

PREDICTION

Arizona Cardinals

26

21

Carolina Panthers

Arizona Cardinals vs. Carolina Panthers Recap OCT 2TH 2022