TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) - The Arizona Cardinals offense was a mess last season, a fact beyond dispute. The defense, on the other hand, played well for the vast majority of the year.

Mindful of the talent he inherits, new Cardinals defensive coordinator Todd Bowles says there will be no dramatic changes to the scheme and he anticipates no problems gaining the loyalty of players who thought so much of his predecessor, Ray Horton.

Bowles, speaking to reporters for the first time since he was named to the post by new head coach Bruce Arians, says he thought Horton did a good job and the players did a good job. Bowles says his task is to build upon what already has been accomplished.