Cardinals start 2-0, but their defense hasn’t found a reliable pass rush through two games. They’ve kept big plays in check by sitting in four-man fronts and playing coverage, yet they’re getting crushed on time-of-possession as offenses march with long drives. Offseason additions Baron Browning, Josh Sweat, Dalvin Tomlinson, Calais Campbell and the top pick Walter Nolen were designed to juice the rush, but the unit still must improvise to get off the field.

Two decisive early leads helped mask the defense’s lack of pressure, including a 24-point cushion against the Panthers after nine minutes in the third, and a late-third-two-score gap versus the Saints. If injuries to the secondary strike, the Cardinals will lean on nickel packages—forcing coaches Nick Rallis and Jonathan Gannon to press for more aggressive adjustments to avoid grinding down in clock-dominant games.

Arizona moved to 2-0 in the 2025 season by molding necessity into advantage. A quick-struck 10-0 lead sprang from a Bryce Young fumble forced by Josh Sweat, then a Zaven Collins scoop-and-score capped the turnover spree that set the tone early.

The second-quarter surge blossomed with back-to-back red-zone threats and a late-half dagger: Greg Dortch’s 29-yard punt return set up a Murray-to-Wilson TD with 47 seconds left before the break, followed by a 71-yard march to James Conner’s score to start the third. The defense buckled late, but Calais Campbell sealed the win on a fourth-and-15 tackle as Arizona weathered Carolina’s rally and improved to 2-0 heading to San Francisco.

Two turnovers, decisive drives, and a closing stand. The Cardinals leaned on opportunism and timely stops to steady a young, imperfect offensive day, showing enough to keep bettors optimistic for a tough schedule ahead against the 49ers.

Arizona hosts Carolina in Week 2 with a chance to start 2-0 at State Farm Stadium, a feat not achieved since 2021. Gannon emphasized rapid three-phase improvement after Week 1 and adapting to Blount’s season-ending injury, pushing interchangeable players into elevated roles. Carolina counters with a mobile quarterback, a strong O-line, and Hubbard in support, plus emerging targets like McMillan. Week 2 will test Cardinals’ depth and how quickly the defense can gel behind its corners and pass rush.

Fantasy takeaway: Blount’s absence nudges opportunity across Arizona’s defense and depth chart, while Hubbard remains a focal point for Carolina. McMillan’s Week 1 flashes hint at red-zone and gadget usage, and the Cardinals’ secondary will be tested by Carolina’s balance. This game serves as a proving ground for Gannon’s plan and for players stepping into expanded roles across three phases.