Choosing your NFL/EFLI team - Optimists

Arizona Cardinals

Colours: Red and white

Mascot: Big Red

Stadium: University of Phoenix Stadium

Home City: Glendale, Arizona

Super Bowl wins: 0 (1 appearance)

Records over last 5 years: 38 wins, 42 losses, 1 playoff appearance

Best Players: Daryl Washington, Patrick Peterson, Larry Fitzgerald

Bio: The Cardinals were in the Super Bowl 6 years ago, and after a short hiatus from success they seem to be moving back in the right direction. Arizona won 10 games this past season despite playing in the most difficult division in football, the NFC West.

Their destructive defense, led by stars on every level (Darnell Dockett and Calais Campbell on the defensive line, Daryl Washington and Karlos Dansby at linebacker, Patrick Peterson and Tyrann Matheiu in the defensive backfield) is one of the best in the entire league.

The offense is not on par with the defense, but they have good young talent in running back Andre Ellington and receiver Michael Floyd to go with veterans Larry Fitzgerald and Carson Palmer.

Coach Bruce Arians was the 2012 coach of the year for his work with the Indianapolis Colts, and is a candidate for the award again in 2013. His team is well organised and competitive, and while there is no guarantee of success in the NFC West, the Cardinals are at least a team to keep an eye on.