Arizona Cardinals MUST Play Competent Football in All 3 Phases to Beat Jacksonville Jaguars

Arizona Cardinals and Jacksonville Jaguars meet in a Week 12 showdown that defies conventional wisdom about their records. While the Cardinals sit at 6-4 and the Jaguars at 2-8, the underlying metrics tell a dramatically different story about two teams separated by razor-thin margins rather than talent gaps.

Alex Clancy and Tony Wiggins dissect this fascinating matchup, starting with Arizona's heartbreaking season narrative—five losses decided by a combined 13 points, including gut-wrenching defeats where they've blown fourth-quarter leads. The Cardinals' resilience under backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett becomes a central theme, as he's engineered consecutive victories while maintaining offensive efficiency. The hosts examine whether Brissett's game management and decision-making can continue against a Jaguars defense that's shown vulnerability, particularly against elite tight ends.

Trey McBride emerges as the Cardinals' most dangerous weapon, dominating the middle of the field and creating mismatches that Jacksonville's defense has historically struggled to contain. The discussion explores how McBride's route-running precision and Brissett's trust in him could exploit the Jaguars' defensive weaknesses.

On Jacksonville's side, the transformation under offensive coordinator Liam Cohen receives extensive analysis. Trevor Lawrence has evolved into a more efficient quarterback, making smarter decisions and protecting the football better than in previous seasons. However, the hosts question whether this improvement is sustainable given the team's overall struggles.

Travis Etienne's underappreciated role in the Jaguars' offense gets highlighted, with both analysts emphasizing how his versatility as a runner and receiver keeps defenses honest. The conversation addresses why Etienne remains one of the league's more complete backs despite playing for a struggling team.

Brian Thomas Jr.'s sophomore campaign becomes a point of concern, as the hosts examine his mental struggles, inconsistent performance, and inability to build on early-season promise. They debate whether it's a coaching issue, a confidence problem, or simply the growing pains of a young receiver adjusting to NFL defenses.

Both teams' offensive line vulnerabilities receive scrutiny, with the hosts arguing that whichever front five can establish dominance will likely determine the game's outcome. The Cardinals' pass protection issues and Jacksonville's run-blocking inconsistencies create opportunities for both defenses to disrupt offensive rhythm.

The turnover battle emerges as the ultimate deciding factor. With both teams capable of explosive plays but prone to critical mistakes, ball security and defensive playmaking could swing this evenly-matched contest. The hosts debate whether Arizona's playoff aspirations or Jacksonville's pride will provide greater motivation in a game where both teams desperately need momentum heading into the season's final stretch. Let's discuss.


The Best Daily Arizona Cardinals Podcast. Host Alex Clancy (@ClancysCorner) take an unbiased approach covering the biggest Cards stories.

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