We continue the countdown to the start of the Arizona Cardinals‘ regular season. Today, Friday, June 19, is 86 days away from the Arizona Cardinals’ regular-season opener on Sept. 13 on the road against the Los Angeles Chargers.
With 86 days until Week 1, let’s look back at the 1986 season for the Cardinals.
A look back at the 1986 season for the Cardinals
The 1986 season wasn’t good. They went 4-11-1. They lost their first five games and never won consecutive games.
They had the worst offense in the league, averaging only 13.6 points per game. They allowed 21.9 points per game, 21st in the league.
They did have three Pro Bowlers, though. Fullback Ron Wolfley, returner Vai Sikahema and safety Leonard Smith.
1986 offensive leaders
Neil Lomax started 14 of 16 games at quarterback. He completed 57% of his passes for 2,583 yards, 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
Stump Mitchell averaged 4.6 yards per attempt, leading the team with 800 rushing yards and five touchdowns. Earl Ferrell rushed for 548 and no scores, averaging 4.4.
J.T. Smith led the Cardinals with 80 receptions for 1,014 yards and six touchdowns. Roy Green scored six touchdowns on 42 catches for 517 yards.
Sikahema led the NFL with 522 punt return yards and two punt return touchdowns.
1986 defensive leaders
Al Baker led the Cardinals with 10.5 sacks, and Freddie Joe Nunn was next with 7.5. Cornerback Cedric Mack led with four interceptions. Smith, at safety, had five sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception.
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This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: 86 days till Arizona Cardinals’ opener: Remembering the 1986 season
