Carolina Panthers vs Arizona Cardinals Picks and Predictions December 22nd 2024

Cardinals Eye Postseason Push in Crucial Showdown with Panthers

The Arizona Cardinals find themselves in a must-win situation as they look to keep their playoff hopes alive. With just a few weeks left in the season, the Cardinals (7-7) know that every game is critical, and that urgency will be on full display this Sunday when they visit the Carolina Panthers (3-11) in Charlotte, North Carolina.

“From here on out, we got to win them all and that’s our mindset going into everything,” said Cardinals offensive tackle Jonah Williams. “But there’s definitely a heightened sense of urgency.” After snapping a three-game losing streak with a 30-17 victory over the New England Patriots, Arizona is back in the hunt for a spot in the NFC playoffs, but they can’t afford any more slip-ups.

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Panthers Struggling but Competitive

The Panthers, at 3-11, have had a tough season, losing four games in a row, and are currently sitting with the third-worst record in the NFL. Their most recent loss, a 30-14 defeat at the hands of the Dallas Cowboys, was marked by mistakes from quarterback Bryce Young, who committed four turnovers. Despite the loss, Panthers coach Dave Canales sees potential in his team, especially given their competitiveness in recent losses to divisional leaders like Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Philadelphia.

“Here we go, we’ve got another challenge,” Canales said. “They’re going to keep coming.” While the Panthers may have struggled with turnovers, including Bryce Young’s costly mistakes, they have shown flashes of brilliance in their recent games, making them a tough opponent for any team.

Arizona’s Defensive and Offensive Leaders Stepping Up

For Arizona, the focus is on continuing to build momentum after their win against New England. Coach Jonathan Gannon acknowledged the growth of Panthers’ second-year quarterback Bryce Young, highlighting his mobility and playmaking ability. Despite his four-turnover game last week, Young has made strides throughout the season, and Gannon knows the Cardinals will need to bring their best to contain him. “I think he has really taken a step forward with the play-making capabilities,” Gannon said.

Arizona’s defense has benefitted from leadership and stability in recent weeks, with safety Budda Baker continuing to be a captain for the team. Baker, along with running back James Conner and center Hjalte Froholdt, received contract extensions that reflect their importance to the team, further solidifying the buy-in from key players as the season comes to a close.

“I think they help keep everybody in alignment and they’re premier players,” Gannon added. “And they’re good people, and that’s who we want to build the team around.”

James Conner has been a standout for the Cardinals’ offense, rushing for a team-high 973 yards, including a 110-yard performance against New England last week. Conner has reached 100 yards five times this season, and he’ll be vital to Arizona’s chances in this critical game.

Panthers’ Rushing Attack Faces Challenges

Carolina’s offense also has a solid rushing attack, with Chuba Hubbard eclipsing the 1,000-yard mark earlier this month. However, Hubbard was limited to just 32 yards on the ground last week against Dallas, and the Panthers’ ground game will face a tough test against Arizona’s defense. Panthers coach Canales is hoping for improvement from Hubbard and running back Raheem Blackshear, who is recovering from a chest injury but participated fully in practice this week.

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The Panthers also face defensive challenges, with linebackers Trevin Wallace and Claudin Cherelus being placed on injured reserve, further depleting their depth. “It could be a great opportunity for (other) guys to get in there and see what they can do,” Canales said about the chance for backups to step up.

Special Teams Boost for Arizona

Arizona also received a boost on special teams, as kicker Matt Prater is eligible to return for the first time since Week 4 following knee surgery. Punter Michael Palardy was added to the roster, providing added depth for the Cardinals in the final stretch of the season.

What to Watch

1. Bryce Young’s Growth
   Can Young bounce back from his turnover-laden game against Dallas and continue his development as the Panthers’ starting quarterback?
2. James Conner’s Performance
   Will Conner continue his strong run of form and help Arizona control the clock and keep the pressure on Carolina’s defense?
3. Defensive Depth
   How will Arizona’s defense handle the Panthers’ running backs and the creative ways coach Canales has used Young?
4. Special Teams Impact
   With Prater’s return and new additions to the special teams unit, will Arizona’s kicking game give them the edge in this close contest?

Outlook

The Arizona Cardinals have the momentum after snapping their losing streak, but they face a Panthers team that has been competitive despite its record. Arizona’s playoff hopes hinge on their ability to secure victories in these final weeks, and Sunday’s matchup with the Panthers is an essential part of that plan. With Conner running well and a defense that has shown resilience, the Cardinals will be favored to win, but they can’t afford to overlook the Panthers, who still have the ability to pull off an upset. The game promises to be a hard-fought battle as both teams look to close out their seasons on a positive note.