Traditionally the Cardinals fire coaches the day after the last game of the season. While most writers (Jurecki, Somers) believe it won't happen until after the season, I see one way in which Michael Bidwill steps in and fires Whisenhunt.

Last time Cardinals fired coach during season:

2000 - Vince Tobin after 7 games (2-5 start).

Why did they just not wait until the end of the season? They were working on passing the proposition to have the stadium built and needed a spark with the fan base and Arizona and they knew Mcginnis would bring that much needed energy.

So why does this relate to the 2012 Cardinals?

One thing we have learned is that Michael Bidwill is not Bill Bidwill, he is more like Charles Bidwill. He seems to take pride in two things. Winning and keeping the "Sell out" streak alive at UofP stadium.

Scenario:

If Cardinals lose to SEA on Sunday, which is most likely, and the home game against 4-8 DET is looking like it won't sell out, then Horton could be named the coach.

Hiring Horton would create a spark to sell the remaining tickets and keep the streak alive.Maybe this is why there has been reported talks with Horton. If there was not chance of firing Whiz during the season, then why not wait to have talks with Horton until after the season ends.