Arizona Cardinals Week 13 Preview

Introduction

The Arizona Cardinals faced off against the Seattle Seahawks in a hard-fought battle during Week 12, ultimately falling short with a score of 6 to 16. While the scoreboard may not reflect a glorious outing, the Cardinals showcased some noteworthy statistics that provide a glimpse into their ongoing journey. As we transition into Week 13, let’s take a closer look at how the Cardinals performed in various metrics and what this means as they prepare to take on the Minnesota Vikings.

Power Ranking

The Cardinals maintain a power ranking of 10 with a win rate against a median opponent of 61.0%. This is a commendable position, especially considering the ups and downs of the season. However, it’s important to remember that rankings above 16th place are still in the top half of the league, and while the Cardinals are holding their own, they still have room for improvement. Consistency will be key as they head into the final stretch of the season.

Overall Drive Efficiency

The Cardinals’ overall drive efficiency ranked 31st in the league through Week 13, which is less than ideal. This statistic reflects their struggles to sustain drives and convert opportunities into points. In Week 12, they managed to gain 298 yards, but the inability to finish drives left them with a meager six points. The team must find ways to improve this efficiency, especially as they face tougher opponents in the coming weeks.

Defensive Drive Efficiency

On the defensive side, the Cardinals ranked 25th in defensive drive efficiency. This metric highlights their challenges in preventing opposing offenses from advancing down the field. In Week 12, they allowed the Seahawks to accumulate 285 yards. While the defensive unit has shown flashes of brilliance, they need to tighten up and become more effective in stopping the opposition, particularly against a high-powered offense like the Vikings.

Offensive Drive Efficiency

The Cardinals’ offensive drive efficiency is a glaring concern, ranking 29th in the league. This statistic is indicative of their struggles to create and sustain effective offensive drives. In Week 12, despite gaining 298 yards, they were unable to convert that yardage into points, which is a clear reflection of their inefficiency. The offense needs to find a rhythm and capitalize on opportunities if they hope to improve their standing in the league.

Defensive Turnover Efficiency

The Cardinals have had a tough time generating turnovers, ranking 23rd in defensive turnover efficiency. This is a critical area for improvement, as creating turnovers can significantly shift the momentum of a game. The defense needs to step up and find ways to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes, especially as they face a Vikings team that can be prone to errors if pressured correctly.

Offensive Turnover Efficiency

On the flip side, the Cardinals have also struggled with offensive turnovers, ranking 23rd in this category. They recorded one turnover in Week 12, which ultimately hindered their chances of winning. Protecting the ball will be paramount in their upcoming matchup against the Vikings, who are known for their opportunistic defense. The Cardinals must prioritize ball security to avoid giving away easy scoring opportunities.

Drive Time

The Cardinals’ drive time ranks 23rd in the league, indicating that they are taking longer than average to move the ball down the field. While a slower drive can sometimes be beneficial in controlling the clock, it can also lead to missed opportunities if the offense cannot finish drives effectively. The Cardinals need to find a balance between maintaining possession and executing quicker, more efficient drives to maximize their scoring potential.

Preview For Next Week

Looking ahead to Week 13, the Cardinals will face the Minnesota Vikings, who are favored by 3.5 points. The Vikings are a formidable opponent, boasting a balanced offense and a defense that can create turnovers. Advanced Football Stats simulations predict a close contest, with the most common final score being Vikings 24, Cardinals 20. The Cardinals will need to improve their offensive efficiency and tighten up their defense if they hope to upset the Vikings and regain some momentum. It’s a critical matchup that could either propel the Cardinals into a stronger position or further highlight their struggles.

Conclusion

As the Cardinals prepare for their Week 13 matchup against the Vikings, they must focus on improving their overall drive efficiency, protecting the ball, and tightening their defensive play. With their current power ranking and the challenges they face, every game is crucial as they strive to finish the season strong. Fans will be watching closely to see if the Cardinals can turn their fortunes around and make a push for better positioning in the league standings.

Stay tuned to advancedfootballstats.com for more data-driven insights and analysis as we continue to follow the Arizona Cardinals' journey throughout the 2023 NFL season.