But the Cardinals have learned many things this year, something a young team needs. This team, starting four rookies, should be on to bigger and better things in 2005. There is hope for many years to come in Arizona, something that wasn't thought of a few years ago.
Things to watch out for in 2005:
1) Josh McCown couldn't make it through his first full season as a starting quarterback, as he was benched for his poor performances early on in the season. But as of late, McCown has been on a tear compared to his pre-benching performance. In the previous two games, McCown has five touchdowns, whereas the first 13 games he only tallied six touchdowns. His yards per game has skyrocketed the past three games, rising up to 280.6 from 155.4 yards per game, nearly double his output earlier in the season. Because of this performance, Green may be reluctant to rid himself of McCown, who is a unrestricted free agent, this off-season.
2) A big reason for McCown's recent success is the fact that he is looking Anquan Boldin's way a lot more. Boldin was injured the first seven weeks of the season, and had a difficult time having an immediate impact on the squad. But as of late, Boldin has put up a paid of 100+ yard games and has shown us the big-play ability that made him the offensive rookie of the year last season. The third-year-receiver myth, if you want to call it that, could have an effect on Boldin as he should finally break out next season and flourish with another year of maturity. With Larry Fitzgerald alongside him, this duo could achieve great things for years to come if they bring in a decent quarterback and running back
3) With Emmitt Smith more than likely gone from the game at the end of the season, as he is a free agent and may not have a year of football left in him, it should be interesting to see what the Cardinals do at the running back position. Marcel Shipp and Troy Hambrick aren't exactly ideal every-down running backs, and Arizona would love to attract a free agent back, but that is unlikely considering they have a hard time luring free agents to the desert. But it would be a great signing if they could get Edgerrin James, Shaun Alexander, Rudi Johnson, or LaMont Jordan in the free agency period. Top running backs in the draft this year include Cedric Benson of Texas, Ronnie Brown of Auburn, and Carnell Williams of Auburn.
4) Personnel changes may be in store, especially considering the overall performance of the team. Already, Green has dismissed Bob Wylie after week six. He had enough of the poor offensive line performance, which has really changed the second half of the season. Offensive coordinator Alex Wood could be the next one out the door, in what has been a very disappointing season for the offense. A replacement offensive line coach also needs to be found. Ex-offensive tackle Everett Lindsay took over the unit with Carl Hargrave. They had no combined experience coaching the position, and Green would like to bring in an experienced offensive line coach.
