For years, the Arizona Cardinals have developed a troubling reputation: a team that starts strong, only to crash and burn as the season winds down. This recurring pattern has become synonymous with the franchise, and it seems as though every year fans are left wondering, “Will this finally be the year they break the cycle?” With quarterback Kyler Murray at the helm, the stakes are higher than ever for the Cardinals to prove they can defy their history of late-season collapses.
Since Murray was drafted first overall in 2019, the Cardinals have shown flashes of brilliance. His dynamic playmaking ability has electrified the offense, and the team has made playoff appearances. However, despite strong starts, the Cardinals have consistently faltered in the latter stages of the season. From defensive breakdowns to offensive stagnation, the team has often looked unrecognizable in the final stretch of games.
The most recent example of this trend came in 2022, when the Cardinals were poised to make a playoff push but stumbled to a 4-7 finish after a 7-0 start. Injuries, poor decision-making, and lack of execution contributed to another disappointing end to an otherwise promising season. While Murray has displayed his potential as a franchise quarterback, he has yet to lead the team to a consistent, winning performance throughout an entire season.
This year, the pressure is mounting. The Cardinals have made some key offseason moves and appear to have a roster capable of competing in a tough NFC West. However, questions about Murray’s leadership, coaching, and team chemistry continue to linger. Will the same issues that have plagued the team for years rear their ugly head again, or can they finally put an end to their infamous pattern?
The answer may rest on Murray’s ability to stay healthy, lead with consistency, and elevate those around him in the final weeks. For the Cardinals, breaking this near-yearly tradition of late collapses is not just about making the playoffs — it’s about proving they can sustain success when it matters most. Time will tell if 2024 will be the year Arizona breaks free from its self-imposed curse, or if another collapse will be written into the franchise’s story.
