Dec 22, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon looks on during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

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Jonathan Gannon Takes Responsibility for the Cardinals’ Collapse

At 7-8, The Cardinals are already eyeing the 2025 season

Jonathan Gannon’s season with the Cardinals can be summarized in three phases: a tough start, a highly promising middle, and a painful end.

After six regular-season games, the Cardinals held a 2-4 record and didn’t seem far from being able to turn things around. The NFC West appeared more open than ever. Four wins later, they found themselves atop the division and favored to win it.

But the end of the season didn’t go as expected.

Sunday’s game against the Panthers perfectly encapsulates their struggles. Defeated 36-30 in overtime by Bryce Young and the Panthers, the Cardinals are now officially out of playoff contention.

A collapse that Gannon is taking on himself.

“I’m not satisfied with the performance of the team, and that starts with me,” Gannon declared, via Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com. “So, what I’m really saying, that’s an indictment on myself. I’m not satisfied with myself.”

However, there are reasons for optimism for this team.

It’s worth noting that last year, the Cardinals finished with a 4-13 record, meaning they have the potential to double their win total this season. To achieve this, they’ll need to win their last two games against division rivals: the Rams and the 49ers.

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This lack of playoff stakes could have a positive effect on the team, allowing them to play more freely against top-tier opponents. They also have the chance to influence the division title race if they manage to defeat the Rams.

This season has all the hallmarks of a Year 2 rebuilding phase, which began last year with the return of Kyler Murray.

“So, they’re learning opportunities for us and we’re going to go play a really good team and I’m excited about it. That’s the competitor in me, can’t wait to play on Saturday. I wish it was here, but you got to go through the process.”

Photo Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

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Charles Taudin

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Global Editorial Chief of The Playoffs, I created The Free Agent, which became The Playoffs FR, in 2020 during the pandemic. A longtime fan of the four major American sports, I now oversee the editorial strategy and social media for all versions of The Playoffs. I still occasionally write about sports I’m particularly passionate about, such as the NFL or MLB. If there’s one thing you should remember: Eli Manning is the true GOAT for beating Tom Brady twice.