The Arizona Cardinals are set to take on the Minnesota Vikings in their third preseason contest of the year. It is, as many refer to it, the dress rehearsal for the season. The Cardinals have treated the week like a game week.
The starters will play roughly the entire first half of the game.
What do they need to do?
Score points with starters
The starting offense has not scored any points yet in the preseason. Kyler Murray looked good in the opener and not so good against the Raiders. They have not been showing much of their offense but do need to show a little more and produce some points at least. A touchdown or two in the first half would go a long way.
Get stops with first-team defense
The starting defense has allowed 199 yards in three series this preseason. They have been scored on in two of those three series and the other only didn’t produce points because of a fumble at the two-yard line. At minimum, the starters need to force some punts. A three-and-out or two would be ideal. Forcing turnovers without getting gashed for yardage first would be fantastic.
Cut down on penalties
The Cardinals have been penalized 23 times in two games. That number has to go down. They have had holding penalties. They have had false start penalties and offensive pass interference. Especially with the starters, it has to stop.
As always, stay healthy
The Cardinals have not had any major injuries occur during their first two preseason games. However, it seems to happen every year. Especially with the starters playing about half the game, it is important they avoid anything big.
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