On this episode of Locked On Cardinals, Alex Clancy dives deep into the big question every Arizona Cardinals fan is asking in 2025: What’s wrong with this team? Joined by friend of the show Donnie Druin from Sports Illustrated, the two take an honest, layered look at the state of the Cardinals, touching everything from schematic issues and coaching decisions to player performances and injury impacts.

They break down why the Cardinals have struggled to put together complete games this season, the challenges of a predictable offense, and the mounting frustrations that come with not knowing the root cause of the problems. The conversation highlights how injuries, especially in the running back room, have disrupted the offensive balance, and why neither the playcalling nor player execution can fully shoulder the blame.

Alex Clancy and Donnie Druin also discuss what’s actually working for Arizona: the emergence of Michael Wilson as a reliable WR2, Trey McBride’s continued dominance at tight end, and flashes of hope from the defensive fundamentals—despite injuries. The future of Drew Petzing as offensive coordinator and Nick Rallis as defensive coordinator is debated, along with whether the coaching staff deserves a pass this season.

The conversation shifts toward the elephant in the room: Kyler Murray’s future in Arizona. Should he start again when healthy, or has Jacoby Brissett shown more in this system? They weigh the contractual realities, trade scenarios, and what might be next for the Cardinals at quarterback—plus the franchise's inability to control its own narrative on the field.

As the episode closes, the hosts reflect on questions that have no easy answers, the interconnected issues dragging this team down, and what fans might expect from 2026 and beyond. If you want an honest, multi-faceted look at the Cardinals’ woes, hopes, and future plans—with a dash of optimism—this is the episode to listen to. Let's discuss.

 

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