SB Nation User Blog: Andrew602

Where will DRC rank for 2009?

Andrew602 — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 20:42:01 -0000

about 1 month ago: Arizona Cardinals' Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (29) participates in football drills during the Cardinals minicamp Wednesday, June 3, 2009, at the Cardinals' training facility in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt York)

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In 2008 the Arizona Cardinalsselected a cornerback in the 1st round with hopes that he would eventually develop into a quality starter. They and the rest of us didn't expect a rookie to nearly turn into a shut down cornerback in a matter of a couple games. DRC, or Dominique Rodgers-Cromartiehas now become in just half a year and a whole post season, one of the most exciting defenders to watch play. He's also one of the more anticipated players we would like to see as the 2009 season approaches. Halfway through the 2008 season DRC stepped in the starting role and never relinquished it. Although he only started half of the season, if we multiply his second half stats by 2, he may of finished the 2008 season with 56 tackles, 8 interceptions and 28 passes defended. One could only wonder if that would've happened, and if it did, he could've been up for ROY honors. This year though, he'll be the starter come day one and will have a season, a playoff run, and a Super Bowl appearance under his belt. Cromartie was said to have a high learning curve, and we may see how quickly that happens when next season starts. With the addition of Bryant McFaddento play along side him, it only decreases chances that teams may pick on DRC as well, although he may enjoy it being thrown at.

In a February story, MVN.com released their top ten cornerback list, which didn't feature DRC. It's not shocking, as he's only going to be in his second year, but the real shock is the likes of Carlos Rogers and Cortland Finnegan. They're obviously good cornerbacks but when Fitzgerald burned Finnegan twice in the Pro Bowl, we may have seen the product of a dominant defense in 2008 in Tennessee. As far as Rogers, I do believe he is a good cornerback in the NFL, but I wouldn't say he has the better athleticism and skills then DRC...but that's just my opinion. Where would you rank DRC and do you think he's better then any of the cornerbacks on the list?

Poll

Where would you rank DRC to other cornerbacks in the NFL?

Former Cardinal's Linebacker Calvin Pace Suspended 4 Games

Andrew602 — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 21:20:22 -0000

Former Cardinal's Linebacker Calvin Pace Suspended 4 Games

"I am responsible for what I put into my body and I should have paid closer attention to the League's guidelines. I regret that this has happened and apologize to my teammates, the entire Jets organization as well as the fans," Pace said. "Hopefully, this does not distract from our ultimate goal of winning the Super Bowl."

The Cardinals Greatest

Andrew602 — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 17:37:41 -0000

More photos » by Matt York - AP

24 days ago: Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald smiles after making a catch during the NFL football team's minicamp Wednesday, June 10, 2009, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt York)

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We're a little under two months till some football action and the closer it gets, the less there is to talk about... other then rookie signings. So on another note, let us discuss which current Arizona Cardinal will end up as one of the greatest red bird ever. Over the years there hasn't been many bright spots from the Cardinals gloomy franchise. In all actuality, it's pretty sad that there are only a couple worthy candidates of being the franchise's greatest all-time. The most obvious that comes to mind would be Aeneas Williams. But recently, the tide has turned. Coming off of a Super Bowl run, there are plenty of players that could end up as franchise greats. Here's the list so far:

Larry Fitzgerald

Fitzgerald cemented himself in playoff history last year, let alone Cardinal history. He was always a top-ten receiver but in '09, he's the top dog. He's also one of the nicest/genuine players on the team. He's tweaked certain aspects of his game, and the scariest part is that he's still making improvements. He always seems to find a way to beat the defensive back to ball and make a play. He has crisp route running and superb hands. His current contact runs till he's 28, which is certainly too young to retire, so we can only hope he gets resigned for the remainder of his career. He's already said he wants to go down as one of the Cardinals greatest players and he's not far. It's inevitable that he will hold all of the Cardinals receiving records in the next couple years. He's currently 7th in receptions, 7th in yards, and 3rd in touchdowns.

Adrian Wilson

In wake of his recent contract extension, it's assumed that Adrian Wilson will finish his career as a Cardinal. A-dub's always been a force on the defense, and as we all know, the D just isn't the same if he's not on the field. Whether it be a pick or a big sack, he's generally around the ball carrier making big plays. His recent 5 year deal will keep him as a Cardinal till he's 35, which is generally the age of retirement. He's currently in the prime of his career and coming off another pro bowl year. He's currently 13th overall for career sacks, but 1st for a defensive back. He's also a member of the 18/18 club with 18 sacks and interceptions. Wilson has said he wants to reach the 30/30 club before he retires which is certainly possible. One things for sure, Wilson is currently the longest tenured Cardinal and it seems he will finish his entire career as one.

Kurt Warner

This option may seem a little out of whack as Warner's career may be finished after the 2009 season. But Warner proved age was nothing but a number when he led the Cardinals to the Super Bowl and also started in the pro bowl himself. He may not break any franchise career numbers, but he holds nearly every record for a single season Cardinal quarterback. He one of the classiest, nicest guys in the NFL, and strives to make everyone around him better, both spiritually and athletic-wise. Warner also proved many doubters wrong when he played all 20 games last year. And in case you're curious, he's currently 5th in yards and touchdowns all time. Warner already was voted as the Cardinals all-time quarterback by the ROTB community, and may certainly go down as one of the Cardinals all time greats.

Anquan Boldin

The future's cloudy with this one, but there's still no denying that Boldin is already one of the top wide receivers to ever wear a Cardinals jersey. If a long term deal does happen, Boldin will be sure to compete with Fitzgerald for the Cardinals receiving record books. Boldin is a very unique receiver with bruising strength, and hands that rarely drop a pass. Over the years we have became used to Q catching balls over the middle, running over defenders, and playing through the thick and thin. Although Q has had his current contract disputes, he plays with nothing but heart and lays it all out on the field. If he does stay with the Cardinals for the coarse of his career, he will very well be remembered for his style of play and contributions to the team. Boldin currently stands at 3rd in receptions, 6th in yards, and 5th in touchdowns.

So that's the list and and very impressive one at that. If all four manage to finish there careers as Cardinals, there will certainly be talk as to who is the greatest. But now's the time for us to discuss. Who do you think will finish as one of the Cardinals all time greats? Is there any young players now that may end up in the record books?

Poll

Which current player will end up as one of the Cardinals greatest players?

Matt Leinart Training for MMA

Andrew602 — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 23:02:06 -0000

Matt Leinart Training for MMA

As if things weren't already mixed up in Matt Leinart's world, he's decided to take on the sport known as MMA. Jay Glazer is training him and believes Matt can handle it. Hopefully this improves the football side of things for Leinart as well. As a side note, this in no way means Matt will be switching over to the UFC to fight Anderson Silva, apparently Matt just thinks he needs to become mentally tougher.

Five Outrageous Predictions for the Arizona Cardinals 2009 Season

Andrew602 — Fri, 29 May 2009 17:36:39 -0000

More photos » by Matt York - AP

about 1 month ago: Arizona Cardinals quaterback Matt Leinart (7) motions to teammates during team workouts Tuesday, May 19, 2009, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt York)

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Being a Monday and all, I figured it would be a good time to make some outrageous predictions for the 2009 season of the Arizona Cardinals. Obviously one or none of these may come true, but it's always interesting to put some predictions out there.

Kurt Warner will miss 1 or more games at one point throughout the year. Now this prediction goes hand in hand with another one: Matt Leinart will fill in for Warner and have an outstanding performance. Call it high-hopes or whatever you want, but Leinart has had plenty of time to develop and learn under a 2-time MVP. Kurt is 38 now and the odds of him facing injury are very high. If Matt needs to step in, he has one of the most explosive offenses behind him and possibly the best wide receiver tandem in the game. He will surprise many fans and have a great game.
The Cardinals defense will be tops in the NFC West. I won't go too outrageous and say they will be the best in the NFC, but I really thinks its possible within the division. The defense is currently coming off a great run in the playoffs, and with Bill Davis as the new defensive coordinator, it brings the stability that Clancy lacked. With the maturity of some younger players and even the older ones, it will only help the defense as well. The additions of Johnson, Brown, and Toler also bring depth and talent.
Beanie Wells and Tim Hightower will account for over 1,500 Yards and 12 touchdowns. It's actually not asking a lot but for the Cardinals it would be a huge improvement. With Hightower further developing and losing weight, hopefully he can shed away his dancing ways and gain more then 2.8 ypc. Wells brings a punishing runner to the rushing game and should have a successful rookie year. If he can stay healthy, hopefully will see some 20+ long runs.
Larry Fitzgerald's post season run will carry over into 2009. This isn't saying Fitzgerald will have a great season(once again). I'm saying Fitzgerald will have the best season of his career in 2009 and possibly one of the best seasons for a wide receiver all time. He flew all over some of the top defenses in the league in last year's playoffs, and made Pittsburgh's #1 defense look mediocre. He's returning in top form and with Kurt Warner and possibly Anquan Boldin to compliment him, there's no reason why he shouldn't dominate the league in '09.
Finally, the Cardinals will make the Super Bowl again in 2009. It's very difficult for a team to make the Super Bowl once, but to make it again is nearly impossible. But with the Cardinals roster ever improving, not losing many key players to free agency, and the quality of depth taken in the draft, the Cardinals of '09 will have a better overall team then '08. They also have the advantage of a weaker division and that thing called home field advantage.

Well there you have it, 5 outrageous predictions for the 2009 season that are sure to get some eyebrows raised. What are some other predictions that you aren't scared to make? Which of these do you think will not happen?

The 2009 Arizona Cardinals Offensive Line

Andrew602 — Fri, 15 May 2009 16:34:55 -0000

More photos » by Matt York - AP

2 months ago: Arizona Cardinals' Deuce Lutui (76) throws a weighted ball during drills at football minicamp, Friday, May 1, 2009 at the team's training facility in Tempe, Ariz. . At rear from left; Cardinals' Herman Johnson (67), Ben Claxton (62), Carlton Medder (66) and Mike Gandy (69). (AP Photo/Matt York)

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Over the last couple of decades, the Arizona Cardinals have rarely had a great offensive line. And for few years prior to '08, it's been a large area for concern. Things changed in 2008 though, as the Cardinals offensive line gelled for a second straight season. They were also fortunate enough to not receive many injuries or miss any games. There has been some speculation however, as to whether or not the Cardinals offensive line should be shuffled. Former first round pick Levi Brown struggled at times throughout the season, and other tackle Mike Gandy played poorly in the Super Bowl. Their starting center was an undrafted free agent. Deuce Lutui seemed to commit a penalty or bonehead play in every game till he cleaned up his ways. It also doesn't help their case that the running game finished last in the league in '08. As you can see from the depth chart, the most obvious note is the return of the starting five. You can also see that depth has improved after the draft as the Cardinals have some solid lineman even at the 3rd string unit. There are some lineman that have the potential to be inserted into the starting line up as well. Lets take a look at the offensive line.

Keeping the Line the Same:

The Cardinals offensive line will be going into their 3rd year together, aside for Al Johnson being lost due to injuries. One of the key factors to any team's success is consistency. Keeping the line together another year would only improve their play. They played especially well towards the end of last season headed into the playoffs. To put it in perspective, the Cardinals line only gave up 28 sacks

Warner	2007	2008
QB Rate	89.8	96.9
Comp %	62.3	67.1
TDs	27	30
INTs	17	14
Yards	3417	4583

throughout the season, which was tied for 11th in the league with the Giants. They only allowed 5 sacks throughout the playoffs, 2 being in the Super Bowl. To put that in a better perspective, the offensive line gave up 1.75 sacks per game during the regular season, and 1.25 during the playoffs. One has to wonder if that same play and momentum through the playoffs, will continue on in 2009

Shuffling the Offensive Line:

There have been many opinions thrown around, especially here at ROTB as to whether or not the Cardinals should adjust the offensive line. This all started stemming after the Super Bowl. Many wondered if the Cardinals should have taken center, Alex Mack out of Cal, in the 1st round of the draft, which we broke down here and here. Others were frustrated with Mike Gandy's performance in the Super Bowl, as he was manhandled by James Harrison. Obviously a center wasn't drafted and there wasn't a significant pick up in free agency to replace Gandy. But that still doesn't stop the shuffle talk. One of the most common structures that I have seen was moving Levi Brown to guard. But how would this affect the rest of the line? Brown would likely take Wells place, as Lutui found his grove in the second half of the season. Putting Brown at guard would essentially help him utilize his skills in the running game, and avoid his weakness in pass protection. That move however, would leave a hole at tackle that would be tough to replace. Gandy could slide over to right tackle, and Wells could take the left tackle position. Wells has experience at tackle, but can he handle the speed of edge rushers? Another scenario out there is taking Gandy completely out of the equation, and inserting Hermon Johnson, Brandon Keith, or Elliot Vallejo. Johnson and Keith are massive lineman that could definitely improve the rushing game, but they're still young, overweight to play tackle, and may not have the speed for some defenses. Vallejo is also young but many want to see how he would handle the pressure of starting. Could we see this line up one day?

Bottom Line:

The Cardinals line will surely develop even more in '09 and we should see that improvement in their play. The coaching staff had enough confidence in Sendlein to keep him as our starting center, so we may see an improved Lyle as well this year. Although Brown struggled at times last year, he was still young and developing, and we can only hope that he has improved his technique. Wells and Lutui seem to be locks at guard as Wells is always consistent, and Lutui seemed to change his bonehead ways in the middle of last year. The final member and the dark horse of the line, Mike Gandy, showed at times last year that he was a solid tackle. If he's able to improve against speed rushers, then we may see fewer sacks given up by him. After looking at the line, there are certainly more pieces in the mix and a lot better depth then ever before. It seems as though you could insert any of the young players but how much of an improvement would it be over the current starters? Should the Cardinals continue adding pieces to the line or shuffling anybody around? What would your line up be if you shuffled the line?

ROTB All-Cardinal Team: Defensive Tackles

Andrew602 — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 19:20:27 -0000

It's late but it's here. After a short break for the draft, ROTB can now return to finishing their all-Cardinal team. We last left off with the defensive ends, where Simeon Rice won the starting nod, along with Freddie Joe Nunn earning 2nd on the depth chart. It should also be noted that fan favorite, Bert Berry earned a well amount of votes so he does get honorable mentions here. We now move on to the interior part of the defensive line with the defensive tackles. As we've stated before, sacks weren't recorded as a stat till 1982 so it is difficult to measure a franchise leader on the defensive line. We did try our best to include the top nominees, and if you feel somebody should be added, drop a comment with who and why.

Eric Swann DT ('91-'99): 45.5 Sacks, 2 INT, 6 FF-8 FR, 376 Tackles, 2 Pro Bowl, 2 2nd Team All-Conf, 6th pick 1991 Draft

Swann played for the Cardinals from '91 to '99 and was a pro bowl & all pro during '95 & '96 season. He is the franchise leader in sacks from the defensive tackle position and is on the leader board for consecutive games with a sack at four (1995). Swann was the rare modern day NFL player who never attended college. He was drafted off of semi-pro team after not having the grades to attend North Carolina State, but that certainly didn't stop him from having one of the most prolific careers of any Arizona Cardinal player in franchise history. Knee problems ended his career at the age of 30 but Swannie, as recently as last year, is still trying to get back in the NFL.

David Galloway DT ('82-'89): 38 Sacks, 1 INT, 6 FR

Played for the Cardinals from '82 to '89 and was a second round pick in the '82 draft. He has the second most sacks for a defensive tackle in Cardinals history (36) and his 12 sack season in 1983 still ranks as the best sack season for any defensive tackle in franchise history (and 8th overall). In that '83 season he also added a safety and a pick. After three injury plagued seasons (missed 24 games) Galloway was traded to the Denver Broncos after the '89 season and the next season in the NFL would be his last. He never lived up to the expectations that he made for himself after that great season in '83 but when he was healthy he was a force in the middle of the defensive line.

Chuck Walker DT ('64-'71):

Walker played for the Cardinals from '64 to '72 and was voted to a pro bowl in '66, and was voted to the first team All-Pro in 1969. Walker could have easily been one of the first real run-stuffers as he stood 6'3 and weighed over 260 pounds in his time. He was also a more dependable defensive tackles as he played in 96 games as a Cardinal. Since sacks weren't recorded when he played, the only stat to track was that he recovered 15 fumbles in 9 years as a Cardinal, which does indicate that he was consistently around the ball carrier.

Sam Silas DT ('63-'67):

Another defensive tackle during the sixties in Sam Silas, played for the Cardinals from '63 to '67 and was voted to a pro bowl in '65. Silas, just like Walker, was also a large clog in the middle weighing 255 pounds and standing 6'4 during his time. He was also a secure starter as he never missed a game during his tenure as a Cardinal.

Darnell Dockett DT ('04-): 19 Sacks, 3 INTS, 173 Tackles, 6 FF

The final addition to the nominees is the current defensive tackle in Darnell Dockett. Although he's recently made news by requesting a trade, for the most part, he's been a favorite on the team, and a steal for being drafted in the 3rd round of the 2004 draft. We all know that Dockett can be unstoppable when he wants to be, evidence being in the Super Bowl as he single-handedly stopped a couple Steeler drives. He also tied a Super Bowl record with 3 sacks. Dockett can be a dominant defensive tackle at times, and is also underrated in his durability, as he's started 79 out of his 80 career games.

Who makes the cut on your All-Time team?

Poll

Who is the Arizona Cardinals All-Time Defensive Tackle?

Eric Swann

199 votes

David Galloway

2 votes

Chuck Walker

6 votes

Sam Silas

1 votes

Darnell Dockett

51 votes

259 votes | Poll has closed

Arizona Cardinals News: Anquan Boldin Speaks to Media

Andrew602 — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 20:19:47 -0000

More photos » by Matt York - AP

Larry Fitzgerald, working out at the team's first mini-camp practice on Friday, hopes to have his fellow reciever Anquan Boldin on the field soon. (AP Photo/Matt York)

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After showing up at Arizona Cardinals mini-camp with an 'injury' that the team was unaware of, getting an MRI and not participating in practice, Anquan Boldin got his chance to address the media. There weren't any orchestrated blowouts or demands but Boldin got his point across none the less. He's not happy, he's not sure the Cardinals really tried to trade him and he might not report to camp. None of that is really ground breaking or news worthy, but really just sign that we're in for another eventful summer.

One thing seems clear, after tomorrow we won't see Boldin until the team reports to Flagstaff for training camp (if he shows up on time). It would have to be classified as a major surprise if he made an appearence at any of the team's OTA's over the next couple of months. Ken Whisenhunt and the rest of the front office continue to say that Boldin is part of the long term plans but his contract issues will be resolved after Karlos Dansby and Adrian Wilson.

For what it's worth, here's what Darren Urban and Kent Somers had to say about their exchanges with Boldin.

Arizona Cardinals Fan Fest this Saturday

Andrew602 — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 15:38:59 -0000

This Saturday is the Arizona Cardinals annual fan fest. If you've never heard of it, its basically a mini camp for fans and children. I've personally been to two of them before and for being free, it's pretty cool if you're a Cardinal fan. You get to see the players practice up close, then get autographs. The autograph session is more kid-related so if you don't have kids, you're better off waiting till training camp to get autographs. If you live in the Phoenix or Tempe area, it's really beneficial to go and see our team up close. I wanted to go and take pictures for the site but I will be moving this weekend and won't be able to attend. If you do plan on going, make sure to represent ROTB. Here's some details from the Cardinals web site.

Autograph Session Details
Upon entry kids, 12 & under, will randomly draw one (1) colored wristband. The color of the wristband will correspond to the autograph area that they will be permitted to access during the 15 minute autograph session. Detailed information will be provided on the autograph/roster card that all guests will receive upon entry. Distribution of wristbands will only occur upon entry into the Fan Fest event and will conclude at 10 AM or earlier based on a first come first served basis. During the autograph session the following rules will be enforced: only kids, 12 & under will be permitted into the designated areas, one parent per child will be permitted for small children, only one autograph per person, and no posed photos will be allowed. These rules are in place to ensure that guests have a fair and safe experience, therefore no exceptions will be permitted.

In addition, Big Red and Cardinals Cheerleaders will be available for autographs. Cheerleaders will sign from 9:30 AM - 11 AM and 11 AM -12:30 PM.

Fan Fest Schedule

9:00am	Doors Open and Kids Interactive Zone Open
10:15am-10:40am	Autograph session for children ages 12 and under only. One item to be autographed per child. No posed photos. Availability and access to certain players may be limited.
10:45am-12:15pm	Team Practice on Fields #2 and #3
12:15pm	Event concludes

Arizona Cardinals Cut Edgerrin James, Travis LaBoy and Rod Hood

Andrew602 — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 23:22:29 -0000

In a surprising yet predictable move, the Arizona Cardinals have parted ways with running back Edgerrin James, defensive end Travis LaBoy, and cornerback Roderick Hood. James was the one move we all expected to happen, the other two, not so much. Although LaBoy did absolutely nothing last year, he would just be in his second year with the team and would be returning healthy. Hood is the shocker. The Cardinals had a poor secondary last year and Hood was one of the more solid players. According to NFL.com, this is all salary cap related. Releasing Edge now frees up $5 million in cap room, while the release of Hood will release $3 million, and LaBoy $2 million. The current draft now makes a lot more sense with the additions of Cody Brown and Rashad Johnson/Toler. The moves do however, limit depth, especially on the defense. Obviously coach Whisenhunt and Bill Davis saw something that didn't fit into the defensive scheme the Cardinals were trying to run. What's everybody's take on the situation? Was this the right move for the team?

It's never easy to release veteran players who have contributed to the team's success, and these three individuals certainly fall into that category.
But like every decision we make, it simply comes down to what is in the best interest of our football team and what gives us the best chance for success. We're grateful to all three of them for their contributions and wish them nothing but the best in the future.