PHX Reporter

Every team begins the league year with hopes of advancing into the playoffs. However, when that goal is not achieved, as it happened for the Cardinals in Week 16 against Carolina, the season does not come to a halt.

Linebacker Kyzir White emphasized resilience and maintaining a positive mindset despite setbacks. "We just have to keep moving," he stated after Sunday’s 36-30 overtime loss. The defeat was discussed by White, coach Jonathan Gannon, quarterback Kyler Murray, and others. Although the loss dampened urgency and anticipation, Gannon stressed that preparation remains unchanged.

"It's obviously not the outcome we wanted and that we're not going to be playing in mid-January, but I'm excited for these two opportunities," Gannon remarked. He highlighted the importance of competition even when playoff prospects are gone.

With two games remaining on their schedule, Gannon reflected on last year's end-of-season performance when they finished 4-13 after starting 1-8. The focus was more on growth and competitiveness than just the record itself. The Cardinals now have a chance to double their win total from each of the last two seasons if they defeat the Rams.

Offensive coordinator Dew Petzing noted how challenging it is to secure victories in this league. "I think that's something that people in this league, the longer they're in it, don't take good seasons, good games, good performances for granted," he said.

Right tackle Kelvin Beachum referenced Bill Parcells' famous quote about team records postgame. Meanwhile, Gannon took responsibility for the team's performance: "That's an indictment of myself. I'm not satisfied with myself."

The drive to improve continues pushing the Cardinals forward as they remain focused on competition and love for football. Gannon made clear that their season did not conclude in Carolina: "There's still a lot at stake for this team these last two games," he stated.