First up, they must improve their red-zone offense. Last year, the Cardinals finished third in the league, scoring touchdowns 68 percent of the time they were inside an opponent's 20.

Against San Francisco, however, they failed again and again. On their first possession, the Cardinals had first-and-goal at the 7, yet settled for a field goal. A turnover gave them possession at the San Francisco 11 on their second possession, and Neil Rackers missed a 35-yard field goal.

In all, the Cardinals were inside the 49ers 20 six times but scored only two touchdowns and a total of 23 points. Factor in that the 49ers committed five turnovers, and the Cardinals' offensive production was woeful.

"I thought the game couldn't have started much better for us," coach Ken Whisenhunt said. "Situation-wise, we didn't take advantage of it like I would have preferred."

Afterward, offensive players complained about a lack of rhythm. The game plan seemed to emphasize the run, and quarterback Kurt Warner wasn't particularly sharp when he did throw.

Offensive coordinator Todd Haley opened things up in the second half. The Cardinals passed on nine of the first 10 plays and scored 10 points on their first two possessions to take control.

Still, there is much for this offense to work on this week as it prepares for Miami.