PHX Reporter

The Arizona Cardinals are preparing for their upcoming game against the San Francisco 49ers, scheduled for Sunday at State Farm Stadium. The Cardinals are favored by four points according to BetMGM's online sportsbook.

A key focus for the Cardinals is improving their turnover margin, which has declined since their bye week. They currently rank in the lower third of the league with a minus-6 turnover ratio. In a previous matchup against the 49ers, Arizona's defense forced three turnovers and one turnover on downs in the second half.

Paul Calvisi highlights that "the ball, ball security, win the turnover battle" is crucial according to head coaches. Generating takeaways remains an essential part of this equation.

Nick Rallis' defensive unit has been effective in limiting passing touchdowns this season. Only three teams have allowed fewer than the Cardinals' 18 end zone completions for scores. This marks a significant improvement from last year's defense, which allowed 32 passing touchdowns.

Craig Grialou notes that despite having several young players in key positions like cornerbacks Starling Thomas and Garrett Williams and safety Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, aka Rabbit, alongside Pro Bowl safety Budda Baker, they have managed to enhance their defensive performance.

In another storyline leading up to Sunday's game, tight ends Trey McBride of the Cardinals and George Kittle of the 49ers will face off. Both teams have been successful in defending tight ends throughout the season. McBride recently earned his first Pro Bowl selection after scoring his first receiving touchdown of the season and aims to continue his strong performance against a division rival.

Dani Sureck comments on McBride's progress: "McBride got the monkey off his back after recording his first receiving touchdown of the season."