GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals entered the 2025 season with the 27 easiest strength of schedule in the NFL. The opening stretch of games had analysts pick Arizona to start of the year on a hot streak and take an early lead over its division rivals. However, after winning its first two games, the Cardinals have lost back-to-back games to NFC West opponents and sit at 2-2.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The franchise is last in the division and will need to take a hard look at themselves, according to head coach Jonathan Gannon. The 42-year-old shoulders much of the blame and understands the team’s next steps.
Sep 21, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon on the sidelines during the first half against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
How do Cardinals bounce back from 2-2 start?
Gannon addressed the reason for Arizona’s slow start by pointing out that the offense hasn’t been consistent enough. Despite some flashes, the third-year Cardinals coach hasn’t seen a full four-quarters performance from his offensive unit. The personnel is there for Gannon and his team to win games, Kyler Murray, Trey McBride, Marvin Harrison Jr. and more.
Sep 10, 2023; Landover, Maryland, USA; Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon (left) hugs Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing before the game against the Washington Commander at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Brent Skeen-USA TODAY Sports
Fans are ready to blame offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, but Gannon has trust in his coach. After the San Francisco 49ers lost, Gannon stated that Petzing called his best offensive games as a member of the organization.
The problem for the offense is not stacking good possessions early. Murray has noticed it has taken the offense too long to load into the game and how they need to be ready from the jump. Being 2-2 could be the spark the unit needs to play with some urgency down the stretch.
Aug 2, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Walter Nolen III in the Red and White practice during training camp at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Another aspect holding the team back is the injuries, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Arizona’s defense has been sensational to begin the season, but injuries have still been a major problem. The Cardinals top two draft picks have been sidelined the past two weeks in Walter Nolen and Will Johnson.
Nolen was on the PUP list and was scheduled to miss the first four weeks. The 16th overall pick could make his debut as early as next Sunday vs. the Tennessee Titans. The hope is that he is joined by fellow rookie sensation Johnson, who has arguably been the team’s best cornerback.
The long week of rest will surely help the roster get situated offensively and healthy. Gannon’s cool demeanor and confidence that Arizona will figure it out should calm the nerves of some fans ahead of the team’s .500 start.
Cardinals fans react to Harrison Jr.’s touchdown after first half struggles
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
