Cardinals’ 2021 schedule includes NFC North, AFC South opponents

Jan 3, 2021, 9:19 PM

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) runs as San Francisco 49ers cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon (23) defends during the second half of an NFL football game, Saturday, Dec. 26, 2020, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

(AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

BY ARIZONA SPORTS

The Arizona Cardinals’ 2020 season is officially over following an 18-7 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 17.

With no playoffs in sight, it’s time to turn the page to next year.

After the team’s final game of the season, the Cardinals’ 2021 slate of opponents is now known.

And let’s just say there’s one matchup that everyone is going to be tuning in for.

Following an offseason trade that landed him in Arizona, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins will get a chance to face off against his former team in the Houston Texans at State Farm Stadium. Hopkins played seven seasons in Houston, amassing 8,602 yards and 54 touchdowns over that span.

Aside from its NFC West showdowns, Arizona will also take on the Indianapolis Colts at home, as well as the Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings and Carolina Panthers.

Looking at the Cardinals’ road opponents, Arizona will take on the other NFC North and AFC South teams and the Dallas Cowboys.

Additionally, a 17th game will be played in 2021. While the opponent hasn’t been made official, the formula used for the extra game pits the NFC West against the AFC North, per The MMQB’s Albert Breer. With the Cardinals and Browns both finishing third in their respective divisions, the two will square off in 2021. It is not known which team will host the matchup.

The dates and times of the 2021 schedule will be released at a later time.