The Arizona Cardinals have had a lot of problems this season. Most of the issues have centered on an offense that has underperformed. For the most part, it has felt like the defense has been the strength of the team.
However, statistically, the defense is not good.
In fact, in the most important defensive metric — points allowed — after allowing 31 to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, the Cardinals are now second-to-last in points allowed.
Through nine games, they are allowing 26.8 points per game, which is only 2.5 points fewer than the Detroit Lions, whose defense has been absolutely atrocious this season.
They have allowed more than 30 points in three straight games and allowed 44 in the season opener.
After not allowing a 100-yard rusher for the first seven games, they have in each of the last two.
They have allowed a receiver to have more than 95 yards in three straight games.
The defense was a strength for a stretch of the season but now it is wearing down.
With offensive issues and a defense that is allowing a lot of points now, it is not surprising the Cardinals haven’t been able to get things on track.
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