But its not just poor decisions and third downs that have derailed more drives this season than Arians can count. The Cardinals dont yet have a complete understanding of the offense after six months of learning it.
I havent seen it take this long ever, Arians said. Weve looked at it long and hard as a coaching staff if were asking too much and everyone decided obviously not. We just have to do a better job as coaches and players.
Backup quarterback Drew Stanton watched Arians install the same offense last season in Indianapolis as the offensive coordinator then interim head coach. There are small changes this season, mainly because of personnel and opponents. But the Colts didn't take as long to pick it up.
Arians wants to create mismatches as often as possible and that philosophy has changed how players like wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald approach the offense. Fitzgerald has been moved around the field for the first time in his career, lining up out wide, in the slot, off the line and everywhere in between.
He struggled to pick up the added positions during OTAs and minicamp, but after an entire offseason he figured out where he needed to be. Yet, Fitzgerald, Andre Roberts and Michael Floyd can still be seen changing positions at the last second before a snap or figuring out where to go coming out of a huddle.
At times there are moments where theres a little bit of confusion, Fitzgerald said. I think guys, overall, are getting better at digesting things that are going on. This week, hopefully, itll be a lot sharper.
