30 Facts About The Arizona Cardinals

The Birth of the Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals have a rich history that dates back over a century. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this storied NFL franchise.

1. The team was founded in 1898, making it the oldest continuously run professional football team in the United States.
2. Originally known as the Morgan Athletic Club, the team was based in Chicago.
3. The name "Cardinals" came from the color of the jerseys they received from the University of Chicago, which were cardinal red.

Moving and Rebranding

The Cardinals have undergone several relocations and rebrandings throughout their history.

4. In 1920, they became a charter member of the American Professional Football Association, which later became the NFL.
5. The team moved to St. Louis in 1960 and was known as the St. Louis Cardinals.
6. In 1988, the franchise relocated to Arizona, initially playing in Tempe before moving to Glendale.

Memorable Moments and Achievements

The Cardinals have had their share of memorable moments and achievements over the years.

7. The team won its first NFL Championship in 1925.
8. They secured another NFL Championship in 1947, defeating the Philadelphia Eagles.
9. The Cardinals made their first Super Bowl appearance in 2009 but lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Legendary Players

Several legendary players have donned the Cardinals' uniform, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise.

10. Larry Fitzgerald, one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history, spent his entire career with the Cardinals.
11. Pat Tillman, who left his NFL career to join the U.S. Army, is remembered as a hero both on and off the field.
12. Aeneas Williams, a Hall of Fame cornerback, played the majority of his career with the Cardinals.

Stadium and Fanbase

The Cardinals' home stadium and their passionate fanbase are integral parts of the team's identity.

13. State Farm Stadium, located in Glendale, Arizona, has been the team's home since 2006.
14. The stadium features a retractable roof and a roll-out natural grass field.
15. The "Red Sea" is the nickname for the Cardinals' loyal and enthusiastic fanbase.

Rivalries and Divisional Play

Rivalries and divisional play have shaped the Cardinals' competitive landscape.

16. The Cardinals have a fierce rivalry with the San Francisco 49ers, dating back to their days in the NFC West.
17. Another notable rivalry is with the Seattle Seahawks, intensified by several close and hard-fought games.
18. The team also has a historic rivalry with the Chicago Bears, stemming from their early days in Chicago.

Community Involvement

The Cardinals are deeply involved in their community, making a positive impact off the field.

19. The team established the Cardinals Charities in 1990 to support various community initiatives.
20. They host an annual "Cardinals Charities Celebrity Golf Classic" to raise funds for local causes.
21. The Cardinals are active in promoting youth football and fitness programs throughout Arizona.

Coaching and Leadership

Coaching and leadership have played crucial roles in the Cardinals' journey.

22. Bruce Arians, who coached the team from 2013 to 2017, led the Cardinals to multiple playoff appearances.
23. Kliff Kingsbury, the current head coach, is known for his innovative offensive strategies.
24. Michael Bidwill, the team's president, has been instrumental in the franchise's growth and success.

Records and Milestones

The Cardinals have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones over the years.

25. Larry Fitzgerald holds the record for the most receptions in a single postseason, with 30 catches in 2008.
26. The team set a franchise record for most wins in a season with 13 victories in 2015.
27. The Cardinals' defense set a record for the most sacks in a single game, with 10 sacks against the New York Giants in 1986.

Unique Traditions

The Cardinals have unique traditions that add to the team's culture and identity.

28. The "Big Red" mascot, a cardinal bird, is a beloved figure at games and events.
29. The team has a tradition of honoring military personnel during home games, reflecting their strong support for the armed forces.
30. The "Cardinals Flight Plan" is a pre-game ritual where fans wave red flags to show their support for the team.

Final Whistle

The Arizona Cardinals have a rich history filled with memorable moments and unique facts. From their early days in Chicago to their current home in Arizona, they've seen it all. The team has had its ups and downs, but their dedication and passion for the game remain unwavering. With legendary players like Larry Fitzgerald and exciting new talent, the Cardinals continue to be a team to watch. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, there's always something fascinating about this team. Keep an eye on the Cardinals as they strive for greatness on and off the field. Their journey is far from over, and the future holds endless possibilities. So, next time you catch a game, remember these facts and appreciate the rich history behind every play.