Understanding Key Lessons from the Cardinals’ Preseason Defeat in Denver

August 17, 2025

Denver, Colorado – The Arizona Cardinals utilized Saturday night’s 27-7 preseason loss too the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High as a focused assessment of players competing for positions on the 53-man roster. While starters were largely sidelined to maintain their health for the regular season, the game offered critical opportunities for those further down the depth chart.

Spotlight on the Secondary: Rookies Take Center Stage

With key defensive backs Budda Baker, jalen Thompson, Max Melton, and Garrett Williams unavailable, the Cardinals’ secondary featured an extended look at several rookies. Denzel Burke and Kitan Crawford received ample playing time, soon joined by Kei’Trel Clark, all under the intense scrutiny of the coaching staff.

Burke, a fifth-round selection, showcased moments of promise. He registered consecutive pass breakups in the first quarter,demonstrating a knack for skillful playmaking. However, he was also beaten for a 17-yard touchdown reception by Troy Franklin and involved in a coverage miscommunication with Crawford on another 27-yard touchdown play.

“It was a lot of fun getting my feet wet and playing a full first half as an NFL player – it was pretty awesome,” Burke stated. “It’s part of the game. Ther are areas where I need to refine my technique. There were positive moments, some negatives, but it was a valuable learning experience.”

Offensive Struggles and Fundamental Concerns

The Cardinals’ offense faced challenges throughout the contest. Although backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett connected with Simi Fehoko for a 16-yard touchdown to tie the game at 7, third-string quarterback Clayton tune struggled under pressure from the Broncos’ defensive line.

Head Coach Jonathan Gannon emphasized the need for improved fundamentals across the board. “Where I felt we really needed to improve was with the basics,” Gannon commented. “There’s a lot to learn from this.”

Broncos Dominate in Yardage and Penalties

The Broncos controlled the game statistically,amassing 323 yards of offense in the first half alone and ultimately outgaining the Cardinals 562-135. Gannon also noted a concerning trend of unnecessary penalties committed by the defensive backs, both in practice and during the game.

Evaluating the Entire Roster

gannon reiterated that the preseason game’s primary purpose was to evaluate players battling for roster spots. The coaching staff will meticulously review footage to assess the performance of individuals like rookie left tackle Josh Fryar, right guard Jon Gaines II, and inside linebacker Cody Simon.

“The most effective way to learn is thru game repetitions,” Gannon explained. “It’s one thing to be technically proficient in practice, but it’s another to demonstrate that skill in a live game situation.”

The team had earlier conducted joint practices with the Broncos on Thursday, providing starters with valuable work against a different opponent. Saturday’s game, therefore, was designated for evaluating the depth of the roster.

Team	Total Yards	Touchdowns
Arizona Cardinals	135	1
Denver Broncos	562	3

The Importance of Preseason Evaluation

Preseason games have evolved in their significance in the NFL. While once a proving ground for starters, they now primarily function as an extended tryout for players on the roster bubble. teams carefully analyse performance in these games to make informed decisions about the final 53-man roster. NFL.com provides a extensive guide to the preseason.

Did you Know? The NFL reduced the number of preseason games from four to three in 2020, acknowledging the potential for injury and the value of more practice time.

Pro Tip: For fans, preseason games offer a first glimpse of potential future stars and a chance to evaluate team depth. Don’t overlook the performance of players you may not be familiar with-they could become key contributors during the regular season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cardinals Preseason

• What is the primary purpose of NFL preseason games? Preseason games are primarily used to evaluate players who are competing for roster spots and to assess team depth.
• How important are preseason stats? While not as crucial as regular season stats, preseason performance can heavily influence roster decisions.
• What does the coach look for in preseason games? Coaches evaluate players’ fundamentals, technique, and ability to perform under pressure.
• How does the performance of rookies impact roster decisions? Rookies have a significant opportunity to prove their worth during the preseason and can perhaps secure a spot on the 53-man roster.
• What role do joint practices play in preseason readiness? Joint practices provide valuable opportunities for starters to compete against a different opponent and refine their skills.

What are your predictions for the Cardinals’ final roster? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this article with fellow football fans.

Were there any notable special teams plays, positive or negative, that directly impacted the game’s outcome?

The Arizona Cardinals’ preseason game against the Denver Broncos, a clash of gridiron titans, offered a treasure trove of insights for coaches, players, and fans alike. Despite the loss, the game served as a valuable testing ground, providing key lessons on strategy, player performance, and areas needing improvement before the regular season kicks off. Analyzing these lessons is crucial for understanding the Cardinals’ path to success.

Offensive Struggles: What the Broncos Exposed

The Broncos’ defense, known for its aggressive play, put the Cardinals’ offense under immense pressure. Examining these offensive struggles is critical for the team.

Quarterback Performance: The quarterback’s decisions, accuracy, and ability to read the defense are under the spotlight.

Were blitz reads effective?

How did the quarterback handle the pressure?

Did he make smart decisions with the football?

Running Game inconsistencies: The running attack needs to establish balance.

Were the lanes open?

Did the backs run with power and vision?

Was the offensive line providing adequate support?

Pass Protection Issues:

How well did the offensive line hold up against the Broncos’ pass rush?

Did the quarterback have time to make his reads?

Were there dialog breakdowns that led to sacks or hurried throws?

Defensive Weaknesses and Areas for Improvement

The Cardinals’ defense also faced challenges. Understanding the defensive breakdowns is essential.

Run Defense Struggles: The Broncos’ running game exposed specific weaknesses.

Were the defensive linemen effectively stopping the run?

Did the linebackers fill gaps and make tackles?

Were there missed assignments or poor tackling techniques that led to long runs?

Secondary Vulnerabilities: The secondary was tested with deep throws.

Were defensive backs capable of covering receivers one-on-one?

Did they allow too many big plays?

Was there enough pressure on the quarterback to force hurried throws or errant passes?

Tackling Deficiencies: Tackling is basic in football.

did the team miss routine tackles?

Were there consistent issues with wrap-up and finishing plays?

How did missed tackles affect the defense’s overall performance and momentum?

Special Teams Performance: An Frequently enough Overlooked Factor

Special teams play a meaningful role in the outcome of the game. Analyzing this aspect is key.

Kicking and Punting Consistency:

How accurate were the field goals?

Did the punter drive the ball and create good field position?

Were there blocked kicks or missed opportunities?

Return Game Effectiveness:

Did the Cardinals’ returners generate positive yardage?

Were there any explosive returns?

Were penalties committed during returns?

coverage Units:

Did the coverage units allow big returns?

Were there penalties on special teams?

Did the team maintain field position in crucial moments?

Positive Takeaways and Player Performances

Although the defeat exposed weaknesses, the preseason game showed some positives.

Emerging Players: Identify players who stepped up and showcased their talents.

Which young players elevated their performance?

Did any players compete strongly for a roster spot?

Were there any surprise performances?

Specific Positional Brilliance: Did any position groups perform exceptionally well?

Did any wide receiver stand out?

Did any defensive lineman create consistent pressure?

Did any special team player make impactful tackles?

Areas of Progress: Note the areas in which the team showed promise.

Was there a specific aspect of the performance that was better than expected?

Did the team show character and fight even when trailing?

Did individual players or groups have a good game?

Coaching and Strategic Adjustments

The coaching staff’s adjustments and strategies are critical for the team’s success.

Play-calling strategy: analyze the play-calling in different game situations.

Were the offensive plays predictable?

Was the play-calling adaptable during the game?

Did they take advantage of mismatches?

Defensive Scheme Adaptations: Defenses must adapt to different offenses.

Did the defensive coordinator adjust to the Broncos’ offensive plan?

Were they effective in containing key players?

Did the defense force turnovers?

Game Management Decisions: Crucial decisions influence momentum.

Were timeouts used wisely?

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