Keys to victory for the Cardinals against the Commanders

The Arizona Cardinals take on the Washington Commanders Sunday at State Farm Stadium and hope to even their record at 2-2. Their offense was on full display for six of the first eight quarters of the season. Last week, they struggled after the first drive.

What do they need to do to end Washington’s winning streak and pick up a second win?

Just do what everyone has done against Washington’s defense

There is nothing special the Cardinals need to do offensively. They are a good running team and the passing game builds on that. Washington is both awful against the pass and against the run.

Washington allowed 5.1 yards per rush, the third-highest in the league. So James Conner should have running space.

Washington is also 31st, allowing 7.7 yards per passing attempt.

They don’t have a good pass rush and their leading sacker is not playing.

Force a punt or two

The Commanders have not punted in their last two games. What’s crazy is if they had punted even once in both games, they would probably be 0-3.

Get a takeaway

Washington has not turned the ball over yet. Let’s say that enough to jinx it.

But seriously, with a rookie quarterback, turnovers are an inevitability, so they are due.

Protect the football

Because Washington’s offense is effective, the Cardinals can’t afford to give them extra possessions.

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