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NFL Predictions 2018: Best-case scenario for all 32 teams

By Randy Gurzi

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - FEBRUARY 04: A view of the Vince Lombardi trophy after the Philadelphia Eagles 41-33 victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LII at U.S. Bank Stadium on February 4, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the New England Patriots 41-33. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - FEBRUARY 04: A view of the Vince Lombardi trophy after the Philadelphia Eagles 41-33 victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LII at U.S. Bank Stadium on February 4, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the New England Patriots 41-33. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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Josh Rosen NFL
NEW ORLEANS, LA – AUGUST 17: Josh Rosen #3 of the Aizona Cardinals throws a pass against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on August 17, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /

Arizona Cardinals: Be in the playoff race

It’s probably easy to think the Arizona Cardinals had a really bad season in 2017. They were without running back David Johnson for the majority of the year and after it was over, head coach Bruce Arians and quarterback Carson Palmer retired. That led to them having to re-tool in a couple major spots which led to the illusion that 2017 was awful.

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It really wasn’t though. Arizona finished 8-8 without Johnson and they also only had Palmer for seven games as injuries caught up with the veteran signal-caller. That finish left them out of the playoffs and three games shy of the NFC West title. Still, a couple bounces go their way and it’s a different tune.

This season should be similar as they replaced Arians with a respected defensive coach in Steve Wilks and they have two quarterbacks who could start — and play well.

Sam Bradford is expected to start and he’s had some success in the NFL. His ability has never been questioned, but rather his durability. Bradford was off to a terrific start last season for Minnesota and could actually be an upgrade for the Cards if healthy. If he isn’t, rookie Josh Rosen has looked more than capable.

This season, Arizona should be in the mix for a playoff spot late in the year. Even if they miss out, competing for it would be a positive step for a team with a new coach and a guy they believe will be their quarterback of the future on the roster.

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