SBNation.com User Blog: cdeveau

Reggie Bush no longer in play for the Arizona Cardinals

cdeveau — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 17:27:50 -0000

Reggie Bush, one of the top tier FA RBs appeared to be on the Cardinal's radar, but that radar blip has been cloaked, thanks to a strong push from the Detroit Lions to snag the back.

Bush, once a highly touted top draft pick from USC came into the league as a scat back type player, adept at catching out of the backfield and making people miss in open space. In this way he sounds a lot like LaRod Stephens-Howling, whom HC Arians has devalued in such a role.

After moving on from the New Orleans Saints to the Miami Dolphins, Bush showed ability to make tough runs between the tackles, and averaged over a thousand yards in his two seasons with the Dolphins. But while he did work between the tackles, he did most of his work receiving from the backfield and utilizing those open space mismatches.

And now he heads off to Detroit, who offered him a four year deal and the opportunity to start, replacing Mikel Leshoure as the feature back. Financial terms have not been made public.

What do you think Birdgang nation? Did we miss out on a coveted back in FA, or are you glad that the Lions took him off the board?

Come discuss the 2013 NFL free agency

cdeveau — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 20:44:21 -0000

The 2013 NFL free agency season has arrived. Trades, cuts and negotiations are taking place, and here is the place to catch up on all the happenings or to discuss any of the moves being made.

As always, be respectful of others in the forum and keep the language clean. Other than that, discuss away.

Who gets displaced in a 4-3 scheme?

cdeveau — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 14:58:23 -0000

So, with the hire of Todd Bowles, there are the rumors of the Arizona Cardinals switching to a 4-3 scheme. If the team decides to go that route, who would be displaced? Standard DT in a 4-3 are in the 300+ pound range, while the DE are between 260 and 275 pounds. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule.

Big Dan Williams could remain as at NT in a non traditional 4-3 system, continuing to take on the offensive double team.

Calais Campbell is awful big for a traditional DE in a 4-3. Could the Cards keep him there, or would they switch him to a DT?

Darnell Dockett, the beast that plays DT for the Cards now in a 3-4. Would he continue to play there, or would they ask him to play DE?

Sam Acho, current OLB for the Cardinals would easily switch over the the SOLB position, lining up over the tight end, and working against the run. My only concern here is Acho's ability to cover a TE in this scheme.

Daryl Washington would also easily transition to the WOLB spot, where he could be used to sniff out the QB.

Quentin Groves could move to backup the SOLB position, and O'Brien Schofield could back up the WOLB position, but those positions are stretches and don't best utilize the skill set that these gentlemen have.

And then there is the MILB spot. Paris Lenon is fighting with father time, and may no longer be the player required for this spot. Perhaps Stewart Bradley, who played the MILB spot when he played for the Philadelphia Eagles could move into the role. However, he has yet to see any sort of solid playing time for the Cards. Could Bradley regain his old form, or are the Cards in need of a true MILB for their 4-3?

What do you guys think? My thoughts, switching to a 4-3 leads to more questions than answwers for this team, as far as player personnel go.

Arizona Cardinals Week 17 bonehead award of the game

cdeveau — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 15:47:26 -0000

The final game of the season has come and gone for the Arizona Cardinals, who faced their division rival San Francisco 49ers yesterday afternoon. After taking a 6 - 0, the Cardinals offense failed to generate enough points to keep up with the 49ers, who put up 27 points and took the W home.

In the loss, there were moments for the Cardinals that translate into bonehead decisions. Below are my nominees for the bonehead award for week 17's performance.

LG Daryn Colledge, one of the veteran anchors on the line getting called for a false start.

Rookie WR Michael Floyd coughing up the ball while being tackled.

QB Brian Hoyer tossing the interception while targeting Larry Fitzgerald.

CB Patrick Peterson getting owned by WR Michael Crabtree most of the game.

Offensive coordinatror Mike Miller continuing to run undersized backs up the middle. I hope LaRod Stephens-Howling didn't send Miller a Christmas card with as many times as Miller fed him to the 300# + linemen.

Honorable mention, Coach Whisenhunt not playing Beanie Wells at all. Maybe Wells was sick/injured, but whatever the reason, not featuring your best back in the game at all is a poor choice.

However, in looking at the nominees for this less than prestigious award, my vote is for Patrick Peterson who, after being selected to the Pro Bowl as a CB, gave a stellar example of what not to do as a CB. What do you think? Let the world know in the poll below.

Poll

Which Arizona Cardinal performance takes the bonehead award for week 17?

Daryn Colledge false start

0 votes

Michael Floyd fumbling the football

1 votes

Bryan Hoyer throwing a pick

0 votes

Patrick Peterson getting owned by Michael Crabtree

18 votes

Mike Miller continuing to run small RBs up the gut

7 votes

Other, comment below

0 votes

26 votes | Poll has closed

Arizona Cardinals week 17 post game thoughts

cdeveau — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 01:31:18 -0000

Darnell Dockett said it best via twitter when he tweeted that he was glad the season was almost over. Well, as of a few minutes ago, it officially is, although in truth, the Arizona Cardinal's season ended week 5, when they lost to the St. Louis Rams 17 - 3.

Today was just the final nail in the coffin lid. Changes should be coming after a season where they Cards finished 5 - 11, tying an equally dismal 2012 performance. The offense requires an overhaul. The QB position struggled when Kevin Kolb went down to injury, although newly acquired QB Brian Hoyer managed to throw a TD pass in the last game. OT requires a look, as does the RB position, especially with the aura of uncertainty surrounding Beanie Wells.

The offensive coordinator needs to change as well. Mike Miller loves running up the middle, even when it doesn't work out. He's been mismatched the entire season.

Defensively, the Cardinals are sound, although once again, due to the season and friction between players and the organization, SS Adrian Wilson and DT Darnell Dockett may be on the way out rather than staying around. As for the DC, Ray Horton has been mentioned as a potential candidate for a HC job, so he may find himself in that position elsewhere.

But hey, as longtime fans of the Cardinals know, there's always next season. Or the season after that. Or even the season beyond that one. Only the magic 8 ball knows for sure.

D'Oh, or the Arizona Cardinals week 16 bonehead award

cdeveau — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 18:32:04 -0000

By now everyone knows that the Arizona Cardinals notched another mark in the L column, courtesy of the Chicago Bears. The current loss provides plenty of material for the bonehead award. My nominees are below.

We start with Beanie Wells, who set the Cardinals back when he took a hand-off from the two yard line, ended up on the ground, coughed up the ball and allowed Zach Bowman to scoop up the ball and score. C'mon man.

Next up is Ryan Lindley, who appears to have mastered the technique of throwing the pick six. This time the Cardinals were backed up on their own five yard line, with a second and fifteen play. Lindley is looking for Andre Roberts and finds Charles Tillman instead, who covers the ten yard distance to the end zone. Flawless Mr. Lindley, flawless!

The newest QB to the team, Brian Hoyer also managed to throw an interception on the day, while looking to target Larry Fitzgerald. Kelvin Hayden was the Bears player to come up with the pick, and he managed a decent return to put the Bears into the red zone.

Mike Miller and his consistent insistence to run smaller backs up the middle. It isn't working with the player personnel you have man, give it up. Please.

In the end I have to go with Beanie Wells. I've been down on him as a player before this, and then to go down like he did and cough up the ball where he was at just shows how unreliable he really is. He's said it himself, everyone is playing for a job.

What do you think, let the world know if the poll below.

Poll

Who should win week 16 bonehead award

Beanie Wells for his fumble

53 votes

Ryan Lindley for his pick 6

11 votes

Brian Hoyer for his interception

0 votes

Mike Miller for his game plan up the middle

12 votes

76 votes | Poll has closed

Arizona Cardinals week 16 play of the game

cdeveau — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 15:46:24 -0000

The Arizona Cardinals hosted the Chicago Bears yesterday, and in what is becoming the norm again, lost the game due to offensive ineptitude.

That being said there was a highlight reel worthy play, wasted in a loss. Normally I make this a poll, but this play tops anything else that occurred in the game, and it comes courtesy of special teams.

It all started when Kelvin Hayden intercept Brian Hoyer. The Bears then march down to the Arizona two yard line, where the defense tightens up, forcing a fourth and two situation.

Chicago marches out their field goal unit, ready to put three more points on the board. At the snap Adrian Wilson comes hard and gets a hand on the kick. Rookie special teams guy Justin Bethel scoops up the ball and returns it the length of the field for a score. Accompanying Bethel on the play and throwing a pair of blocks was Wilson, making sure the play ended in a touchdown.

Sure it was a losing effort. Sure it was clouded by the questions to Wilson at the end of the game about this perhaps being his last home game as a Cardinal. But what I see it as what it truly is, a great effort by a man who has put every ounce of his being into playing for a team.

That's my only choice for play of the game this time around. If you have others let us know in the comments below.

Lastly, have a safe and fortuitous holiday season!

Arizona Cardinals bonehead play of the game, week 15

cdeveau — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 16:04:56 -0000

It’s time for the bonehead play of the game; the Arizona Cardinals very own Homer Simpson D’oh moment.

From the game yesterday against the Detroit Lions, the Cards had a few of those special moments. The kinds of moments that make fans scream in disgust and/or throw the remote at the cat/dog/tv. Here’s my list of plays worthy of the title bonehead.

Jeff King called for holding on the Patrick Peterson run. This backed them up and was the precursor to a punt when the Cardinals were driving deep into Lions’ territory.

Ryan Lindley trying to squeeze a pass into double coverage to Jeff King and throwing an interception, killing another decent drive.

During a punt Mike Adams decided to mix it up with one of the larger Detroit players and was flagged for it.

Special teams are the chance for younger players to pop while on film, however rookie Zack Nash was caught on film holding during a punt return by Andre Roberts.

While most of the offensive planning surprised me in a good way, OC Mike Miller still has the tendency to run smaller backs (LaRod Stephens-Howling) up the gut. This leads to a lot of stuffs or short gains, making chain movement difficult.

While looking at the list of culprits, I’ve got to hand it to Ryan Lindley’s interception. That’s turning the ball over, something this offense can’t afford to do at all. Jeff King’s holding call nearly took the top D’oh honor with him being a seasoned vet, but the turnover still took top billing mistake.

What do you think, let me know if the poll below?

Poll

What was the Arizona Cardinals' bonehead play of the game against the Detroit Lions?

Jeff King holding penalty

10 votes

Ryan Lindley interception

29 votes

Mike Adams' unnecessary roughness penalty

2 votes

Zack Nash holding penalty

2 votes

Mike Miller's insistence to run small RBs up the middle

35 votes

Other, explain below

1 votes

79 votes | Poll has closed

NFC West state of the division, week 15

cdeveau — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 15:32:18 -0000

Ahhh, the NFC West…Darlings of the media. Wait a minute, the NFC West aren’t media darlings by any stretch of the imagination. But I’m starting to hear more love from commentators when they turn their thoughts to the NFC West teams.

As I mentioned last week, the San Francisco 49ers head up the division, and last night they kept their fingertips grasping to it by beating the New England Patriots in a game where the Patriots rallied late but were unable to overcome 2^nd year QB Colin Kaepernick who managed a crucial pitch and catch to Michael Crabtree to put the game away for good. In a game some are dubbing the Super Bowl matchup of the year, Tom Brady was picked twice to his one touchdown while Kaepernick managed four TD passes to his one interception. Frank Gore rushed for nearly a four yard per attempt average for the 49ers.

On the defensive side, sack leader Aldon Smith was held to zero sacks on the day but he did manage one interception. Throw in a pair of forced fumbles and a second interception and the defense shows once again why they are the standard in the NFL.

The 49ers stock was rising last week, I continue to see it moving up. The only bump may come when the meet the red hot Seattle Seahawks again.

Speaking of the Seahawks, they may be the hottest team in the NFL right now. After whooping the Arizona Cardinals 58 – 0 last week, they come back to manhandle the Buffalo Bills by a final score of 50 – 17. Rookie QB Russell Wilson went 14/23 for over two hundred yards and a TD. Running back Marshawn Lynch, the guy the Bills traded away to Seattle put up 113 yards on 10 carries. Talk about earning your Skittles for the day.

Defensively, the Seahawks picked Buffalo’s Ryan Fitzpatrick twice in the game and sacked him 3 times on the day. Additionally, they forced a fumble as well.

Last week I said the Seahawk’s stock was rising as well. This hasn’t changed. They’ve put things together at the right time, and I fully expect their showdown with the 49ers to determine first place in the NFC West.

Still running third are the St. Louis Rams who ran into Adrian Peterson and the Minnesota Vikings yesterday, resulting in a check in the L column, the final score 36 – 22 Minnesota. Games like this happen. Sam Bradford had 55 passing attempts of which he hit on 35 for over 350 yards passing and 3 TD to 1 interception. RB Stephen Jackson still has yet to show signs of tiring as he added 73 yards on 13 carries. The offensive line/QB combo did allow for four sacks on the day, but considering Bradford dropped back 55 times, that’s a lot of pass blocking.

Defensively, the Rams couldn’t stop Adrian Peterson who ran for over 200 yards on the day. Christian Ponder also did his part, going 17/24 and moving the ball when needed, while not turning it over.

The Rams are a chippy group. Jeff Fischer has done wonders with this team. Over the long term they are a hold, but as I said last week, I expect the bumps and bruises to continue even if the team appears to be in each and every game for the rest of the year.

And finally we reach the cellar dwellers. The 5 – 9 Arizona Cardinals who welcomed the Detroit Lions to UOP Stadium yesterday. With both teams at 4 – 9, something had to give. In the end it was less a matter of give and more a lesson on take.

Rookie QB Ryan Lindley was picked only once in yesterday’s game, and behind decent pass protection from the musical chairs line, managed some nice throws. RB Beanie Wells punched the ball into the end zone 3 times yesterday for Arizona on 67 yards rushing. Overall, the offensive production is still horrible as the offense only managed one long drive, but hey, at least yesterday they got the job done.

Defensively the Cardinals were all over Lion’s QB Matthew Stafford, picking him three times, with two of those going back to the house for TDs. CB Patrick Peterson had the third and would have scored as well but he was tangled up at the five yard line. This victory would not have happened if it weren’t for the defense and the special teams play, putting the Cardinals within the Lion’s 10 yards line on 3 occasions.

Two more games left in the season, and then who knows what’s in store for the Cardinals after that. I expect major changes across the board, and until those occur, knowing the direction of this team on a week to week basis is untenable.

NFC West recap, week fourteen

cdeveau — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 18:47:25 -0000

Still ahead of the pack, the San Francisco 49ers are sticking with Colin Kaepernick, leaving Alex Smith out in the cold. However, the results have worked. Last week, Kaepernick was effective in both the passing and ground game, adding a deeper wrinkle to the mobile QB craze. Additionally, this young QB benefits from an effective game thanks in large part to Frank Gore.

On the flip side, the 49ers are as stout as they come on defense, and this helps the young QB as well. Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman continue to perform at a peak level and young OLB Aldon Smith is racking up sacks.

Overall, this 49ers team is a great team, and should be for years to come. Expect the away game at the Seattle Seahawks to determine the division leader once the 2012 season is all settled.

Just behind the 49ers are the red hot Seahawks, but if you're an Arizona Cardinals fan you already know how red hot they are, thanks in part to the 58 - 0 drubbing the Seahawks handed out yesterday. Rookie QB Russell Wilson has people talking about him in the rookie of the year talks. RB Marshawn Lynch continues to put up beast mode numbers, and is rewarded with Skittles aplenty. Yesterday he punched the ball into the end zone three times.

Defensively, the front seven of Seattle eats up the running game and the secondary is big, physical, and as evidenced in yesterday's performance are capable of ball hawking.

Final analysis; a hard playing team with an impressive rookie at the helm, look for them to be in the playoff hunt until the final week of the season, and perhaps beyond.

In third place and playing inspired football for coach Jeff Fischer are the St. Louis Rams. These Rams, at 6 - 6 -1 on the year are also in the playoff talks, and they kept that talk alive by coming from behind to beat the Buffalo Bills yesterday. Sam Bradford wasn't perfect, but at the end of the day he helped pull out a W. Steven Jackson continues to get it done rushing the ball, adding 64 yards and a score.

Defensively, the Rams are agressive and hard nosed, ratcheting up the pressure and sacking QB Ryan Fitzpatrick five times. Rookie Michael Brockers contributing 1.5 of them. The defense also forced a pair of fumbles.

I like how Fischer has the Rams playing, but they face some stiff competition when the Minessota Vikings come to town, and then the Rams visit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Seahawks. I expect them to be in these games until the end, but putting a W on each of them isn’t likely.

Last and certainly least are the plummeting Cardinals. Yesterday they played football so poorly, it hadn’t been done since WW2. 58 – 0, the Seahawks laid the wood to a team that has lost 9 in a row.

Offensively there is nothing to talk about, with three games left, I don’t expect anything from this unit at all. There is no run game. There is no pass game. There is no hope.

Defensively the Cardinals could be a good team, but they have now reached the point where frustration and overuse have sapped them of their wills to compete.

The Cardinals will finish last in the division, and perhaps even last in the league. I see a major restructuring of the coaching staff and front office. Players should by now realize they are playing for a spot next year. And just think, there is next year…

Arizona Cardinals at Seattle Seahawks, week fourteen

cdeveau — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 01:05:04 -0000

Week fourteen found the Arizona Cardinals up in Washington, facing the Seattle Seahawks. Once team finds themselves in the midst of playoff talks while another is spiraling downward with every consecutive week.

This week Coach Whisenhunt went back to John Skelton for QB, a move that smacks of the desperate situation the Cards find themselves in. The result remained the same as prior weeks, an offense that is offensive. No continuity, no run game, no ability to convert the throw and catch. I didn't see Larry Fitzgerald laughing anywhere, so he must be crying on the plane.

I can't blame him though, talent squandered is painful to watch. A major factor in Fitzgerald's squandered talent is Skelton, who completed eleven throws to accompany his four interceptions on the day. The next offensive number is forty three, the amount of yardage the Cards maanged rushing.

Beanie Wells was unimpressive in his carries for the day. William Powell had a nice something out of nothing moment and managed four yards a carry, but only saw five carries. Special teams also contributed to a riducluos showing, with Patrick Peterson muffing a pair of punt returns. Poor play from both special teams and the offense lead to Card's defense being on the field for over half the game, and the time spent on teh field is begging to show.

The front seven failed to stop the run game of the Seattle Seahawks, with both Marshawn Lynch and Robert Turbin topping one hundred yards on the ground. Daryl Washington was quiet this game, with one tackle and a few assists. Darnell Dockett was also limited in the stat line. In fact the normally staunch defense of the Cardinals only notched one sack and one forced turnover. The result, at halftime it was 38 - 0 Seattle, and in the end the Cardinals were handed an insulting loss, the final score 58 - 0. Most likely the final nail is the current coaching staff's tenure. An embarressmnt to watch. And more importnatly, another check in the L column, moving the skid to nine.

Arizona Cardinals Week Twelve: A Tale of Woe

cdeveau — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 04:02:29 -0000

In the battle of #14's, The New York Jets Greg McElroy is better than the Arizona Cardinal's Ryan Lindley. Despite a benching performance that Mark Sanchez put forth for the Jets, which highlighted Kerry Rhodes intercepting him twice, the Cards managed only six points on the board.

At 4 - 8, the best the Cards can do is .500 if they run the table. Highly unlikely considering the schedule. Coach Whisenhunt said "You always do what you think gives you the best chance." Watching today's poor performance makes me wonder what the team thinks will give them the best chance next week.

Superstar Larry Fitzgerald, the man who has been mentioned in trade rumor articles had one reception on the day has maintained a poker face with regards to the offensive state of the Cards. "Struggling is struggling," Fitzgerald said. "It's been a struggle for eight weeks."

My vote for player of the day, Kerry Rhodes stated the obvious, "Whenever our offense is not able to convert third downs, it's tough for us." It's painful as a fan to see excellent defensive efforts fall into the loss column because the offense is dysfunctional. I can only imagine what the defense has running through their minds as this eight game skid continues.

The poor QB thrust into the deer in headlights role, rookie Ryan Lindley lamented his sub-par performance, while giving props to how the defense has played. "The defense have played their tails off all year."

And middle linebacker sensation Daryl Washington had this to say about the day. "Where do you go from here? We're trying to stay positive."

I know that Coach Whis is trying to keep the positive note, but after dropping eight, his words are wrong for the situation. "It's a shame we couldn't get a win out of that with the way the defense played." In thinking that through, it's been a shame for eight weeks. In all reality it's a shame that things have reached this point. Where articles are about how the head coach is on the hot seat and that your star WR may be on the trade market.

Larry Fitzgerald's words are what I leave you with. "You gotta laugh to keep from crying."

If that's where things are at, good luck righting the ship.

Arizona Cardinals vs St. Louis Rams: Player of the game poll

cdeveau — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 15:46:48 -0000

Once again it's time for player of the game awards. The loss to the Rams make this a bit difficult, the way in which the Cards were manhandled on both sides of the ball, even more so. But I've dug deep into the silver lining and have managed some contenders.

First up, the current bastion of the offense, and a man that before last night was labeled as fragile. Playing behind a line best suited for (well really nothing) Kevin Kolb was pressured, hurried, knocked down and sacked all game long. Abused even worse than a pinata, Kolb continued to stand back up, brush himself off, and try and make something happen.

Secondly, Jay Feely and his 35 yard field goal were the only points the Cardinals scored. This thrusts Feely into contender-ship, as it was the only points the Cardinals managed to score on the evening.

Defensively, Patrick Peterson was abused on the first drive, but he did take points away from the driving Rams, intercepting Sam Bradford in the corner of the end zone. Additionally, on special teams, Peterson's punt return skills were back from last week's miserable performance.

Lastly, Daryl Washington gets a nod here. He did notch four solo tackles, one assist, and a ten yard sack in yesterday's match-up. He manages to be disruptive all over the field.

The 12th man. Yes, the fans. For having to suffer through that horrible display of football. This game wasn't competitive, no matter who says otherwise. If you watched down to the last drive, you have my admiration.

For me, the choice is simple. Kevin Kolb. He was beaten up all night and still had the grit to get off the ground and continue pushing forward. That makes him my player of the game. What do you think? Let the world know in the poll below.

And don't forget, next week Sunday the Cards look to bounce back against the Buffalo Bills.

Poll

Who was the Arizona player of the game, week 5?

Kevin Kolb for the grittiness he displayed.

53 votes

Jay Feely for the only Cardinal points scored

0 votes

Daryl Washington for his sack

9 votes

Patrick Peterson for his interception

3 votes

The fans, for watching that debacle.

13 votes

Other, explain below

1 votes

79 votes | Poll has closed

Cardinals vs Rams: Play of the game poll

cdeveau — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 15:18:20 -0000

4 - 1, still atop the NFC West division. However, last night's game in St. Louis left much to be desired from both sides of the Cardinals team. Kevin Kolb was beaten up on every play. The run game struggled to say the least. On defense, Sam Bradford looked comfortable enough to put up 2 TDs through the air. And all the yellow laundry the Cards had coming their way.

From this pit of stink, I've been tasked with finding the Cardinals' play of the game. Below are the contenders, which as much silver lining as I could muster.

On the defensive side, Daryl Washington leads the way with his sack of Sam Bradford, (the only sack of the game for the Cards) taking the QB for a backwards ride to a negative ten yard loss. This forced a punting situation.

Defense again contributes to the list as the Rams, driving deep into Arizona territory are poised to put more points on the board. Sam Bradford drops back and looks for rookie WR Brian Quick. Patrick Peterson plays the ball in the back corner of the end zone, bringing down both feet while controlling the ball. Takes points of the board.

Offense this time. The only points the Cards scored. Jay Feely was one of two, and this was his one that he put through the uprights from 35 yards out. Points on the board. Silver lining indeed.

Last but not least, Rob Housler gets in on the action for his YAC run. Off a short reception, Housler turns on the jets and breaks back to the middle of the field, where he meets Rams' defender Quintin Mikell. Housler lowers the shoulder and runs through the DB.

In review my pick for play of the game has to be Patrick Peterson's interception in the end zone. It all falls back to my mantra. Points, whether on or off the board. Peterson's pick took those points away from the Rams, making that play my play of the game. What do you think? Let the world know in the poll below.

And don't forget to tune in next time, when the Cards look to rebound against the Buffalo Bills.

Poll

What was the Cards play of the game, week 5?

Daryl Washington sack on Sam Bradford for a 10 yard loss

3 votes

Patrick Peterson interception in the end zone

43 votes

Jay Feely 35 yard field goal

0 votes

Rob Housler lowering the boom on Quintin Mikell

8 votes

Other, explain below

3 votes

57 votes | Poll has closed

Arizona Cardinals Moderator game ball for week 4

cdeveau — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 16:10:13 -0000

4 - 0. That's right, the Arizona Cardinals are one of three still unbeaten teams, remaining that way with a nail-biting overtime victory over the visiting Miami Dolphins.

As overtime suggests, the game was very tight, with a few lead changes late in the competition. This also led to some very great plays, and stellar performances. Below are the moderator's choices for game ball of the week, and their reasons why.

Jesse Reynolds went with Andre Roberts, stating, "I'm going with Roberts. After a shaky start to his career he is looking like a legit WR in the NFL. I even put a claim on him in my fantasy league."

Alex Mann stayed with offense for his choice, selecting Kevin Kolb. "Kolb backed up bad plays with great plays and hung in there to help us win."

Randy Fields switched it up, going defense with his pick. "Daryl Washington. Without that forced fumble the game would have been lost. D-Wash makes the play, Big Vonnie Holliday makes the recovery and allows the Cardinals one last chance to win. Kevin Kolb and Andre Roberts both capitalized on the opportunity, but without D-Wash there is no last second drive."

Jess Root noted that in the Miami victory, many people stepped up. "In a game like Sunday's game, there are game balls to be handed out to many people. Dave Zastudil, Adrian Wilson, Kevin Kolb, Kerry Rhodes, Andre Roberts and Daryl Washington all could be good choices. But to go with an easy pick, my ball goes to Jay Feely for hitting yet another pressure kick to win the game."

Tyler Nickel went back to Andre Roberts with his choice, "I'll go with Andre Roberts as well. He made numerous clutch catches, moved the chains, and of course, scored touchdowns. He, unlike what I thought, is proving to be a true #2 wide receiver."

GreaZzy made his choice, going with the QB, but he did give a defensive player honorable mention, even though the player didn't suit up. "I'll give the QB some love this week. Kevin Kolb played like a quarterback who was there to win the game, rather then not lose it. Sure he made a few bonehead decisions, but in the end he made the plays we needed to win the game. Is this a recipe for consistent success? Probably not. But Kolb saved Mike Miller's butt, and won the game a la Kurt Warner. Honorable mention goes to Darnell Dockett. If you want an example of DD's impact on our defense, just watch this game."

Skii flipped it back to the defensive side. "I have to go with Patrick Peterson, he made some big plays, including that interception, that turned the game around. (Kolb, Fitz, Roberts, they all get shout outs)"

My choice, well I went with the offensive flow. "Andre Roberts. Six receptions for 118 yards and 2 TDs. He fought hard to keep drives alive, and put points on the board."

There you have it, straight from the minds' of the moderators. Their choices for game-ball player award. Until next week, go Cardinals!

Arizona Cardinals vs. Miami Dolphins: Play of the game.

cdeveau — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 16:20:57 -0000

A momentum turning moment. That instant where the game shifts in favor of one team or another. Yesterday's overtime winner for the Arizona Cardinals had plenty of these plays, for both the Cards and the Miami Dolphins. Which of these game changing plays could be considered the play of the game?

As with last week, there were a few god plays that just didn't quite have enough oompf to make the list. Three of the four sacks the Cards had yesterday are in this category, 1 each by O'Brien Schofield, Sam Acho, and Adrian Wilson. Patrick Peterson's sixty plus yard fumble return inside the five yard line is another good play that falls just short of the cut.

So where does that leave us? With seven contenders. Each of the seven were turnovers or points on the board. Without further ado, the nominees are listed below.

Points on the board, and the very first of the Cardinals afternoon. Silent until the second half, the Cardinals marched to the Dolphins three yard line when Kevin Kolb took the snap and quickly threw a strike to the outside. Larry Fitzgerald circles around a block and through traffic for six points.

Remember the player Greg Toler was before he injured his knee? It appears Toler is recovery nicely, as his day yesterday showed. To cap off a solid performance, Toler even picked off Dolphins QB Ryan Tannehill.

Andre Roberts, I've already said he is my player of the game. This play exemplifies why. Firstly, it puts points on the board. Secondly, it was a big play going for forty-six yards. Off play action, and right after a nice gain from Rob Houselr down the seam, Kevin Kolb finds Roberts behind all the defenders and delivers a bomb that Robert's YAC turns into a TD.

Raise your hand if you're happy Daryl Washington extended his contract with the Cards. I am. He has been a force all season, and yesterday flashed this gem of a play. Off the snap, and perfectly timed, Washington blows through the center/guard gap and separates Tannehill from the ball eight yards into the backfield. Further heads up play from veteran Vonnie Holliday allows the Cards to recover the ball.

More points on the board, again courtesy of the Kolb to Roberts connection. This one happened to be a fifteen yard touch play into the end zone, with Robert's making the catch and ensuring he touched both feet down before being pushed out of bounds.

Overtime. Feel the pressure. Speaking of pressure, Paris Lenon provided some timely pressure of his own, coming up the middle and putting his hands all over Tannehill, forcing a poor throw that FS Kerry Rhodes plucked down. Did I mention this is in overtime?

Last but not least, more points on the board. In overtime, for the win, Jay Feely lines up for a forty-six yard field goal attempt and puts it clean through the middle of the upright. Final score, 24 - 21 Arizona.

My pick for play for play of the game has to be the Lenon/Rhodes connection to force a turnover in overtime and give the Cardinals a chance to put the game away.

How about your play of the game? Let the world know with the poll below.

And don't forget, the Cardinals play the St. Louis Rams this Thursday.

Poll

What was Arizona's play of the game in week 4's victory over the Miami Dolphins?

Kevin Kolb to Larry Fitzgerald 3 yard TD

0 votes

Greg Toler interception of Tannehill

0 votes

Kevin Kolb to Andre Roberts 46 yard TD bomb

7 votes

Daryl Washington sack/forced fumble on Tannehill, recovered by Vonnie Holliday

40 votes

Kevin Kolb to Andre Roberts 15 yard TD

95 votes

Paris Lenon pressure and Kerry Rhodes interception

21 votes

Jay Feely 46 yard field goal for overtime victory

6 votes

Other, explain below

0 votes

169 votes | Poll has closed

Cardinals vs Dolphins final score: Jay Feely's OT 46-yarder wins it for Arizona

cdeveau — Sun, 30 Sep 2012 22:59:33 -0000

The trap game. The letdown. Any given Sunday. Would today be that day for the Arizona Cardinals?

The Cardinals stumbled out of the gate today, offense suffering miscues and sacks. Kevin Kolb threw a pick just before half. Defense, the strong suit of the team, struggled with the sitting of Darnell Dockett. Rookie QB Ryan Tannehill was far too efficient from the pocket, even more so on third down. Results 13 - 0 Miami at halftime.

Was the half a difference maker? The defense woke up to start the drive, and Kevin Kolb found Andre Roberts to chew up large chunks of real estate before capping it off with a 3 yard turn and thrown to Larry Fitzgerald, who made the end zone. Penalties extended Miami drives or killed Cardinal ones. Greg Toler is starting to show flashes of what he was pre injury. The Dolphins generated better pass pressure than the Cardinals did. Who missed Rob Housler from Kolb down the seam? That needs to occur much more often.

Andre Roberts went off in today's game, both in YAC and TDs. He might be my player of the game.

Run offense. The Cardinals need to figure one out for next year. Ryan Williams and William Powell did very little today from the RB position.

Patrick Peterson made punt returns look difficult all day, and, when compiled with plenty of yellow laundry had the Cardinals in poor starting position most of the game.

Speaking of Patrick Peterson, the fumble recovery and return inside the five might just have made up for the poor return game.

Ball security. If they offer classes on the subject, Kolb needs to sign up. How do you throw a pick on the 2 yard line?

Blown coverage. Brian Hartline made the Cardinals secondary look bad today. I've got to assume plenty of film time will be spent on this as Tannehill threw for over 400 yards.

Daryl Washington forced fumble on Tannehill with just under three minutes to go, amazing. Washington was explosive off the snap.

Overall, the Cardinals were bested in every aspect of the game today. In the end, when it mattered, Paris Lenon crashed down on Tannehill, and Kerry Rhodes picked off the errant pass. Then Jay Feely's leg gave the Cards a victory in overtime. Final score 24 - 21 Arizona.

4 - 0. Hopefully this come from behind victory has opened the Cardinal's eyes to the rest of the season. Tune in next week when the Cards take on the St. Louis Rams.

Cardinals Vs Dolphins: How Backfield Injuries Will Affect The Run Game Plan

cdeveau — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 03:51:16 -0000

Injuries. They've begun to take their toll on the 2012 Arizona Cardinals team. Power back Beanie Wells has been placed on IR with turf toe. He's slotted to back in November. What's been lost in all the talk of the Beanie Wells injury is how the rest of the backfield corps has been decimated by injury as well.

Tyler Nickel wrote up an injury report on the Cards, it can be found here. Listed under the did not participate column are LaRod Stephens-Howling, Anthony Sherman, Todd Heap, and Jim Dray. Under the full participants are Ryan Williams and Jeff King.

That's three of the Card's four tight ends and the only full back they've carried. To counter the injury to Sherman, the organization has signed Korey Hall, while standing pat on their TEs. Alphonso Smith comes back to the team, courtesy of Wells' vacated slot. However, not one of the three RBs active on the roster equal the bruiser back that Wells is.

So what does that give the Cardinals to game plan with against the visiting Miami Dolphins? A backfield of Ryan Williams, William Powell, and Alphonso Smith. Hall gets the FB look. For TE's, unless things change, it's Jeff King and Rob Housler.

The first three weeks of the season the Card's run game has been less than stellar, while Miami's run D has been very stifling up the middle. On the flip side, Miami's secondary is very soft. The run game can benefit from this by using the pass to set up the run. Attack the weakness.

Throw the ball to start the game. Quick slants, TE drags, short hooks. Use formations that can be run from as you do. Test the outside of the Miami defense. RB hitches to the outside. Evaluate the draw play as something other than a third and long choice. And lastly, if they are strong at the point of attack, move the point of attack. Shift the line, make the defense move to the ball.

Running the rock is important in football, regardless of how large the swing to a passing league it's taken. Arizona needs their run game to valid against this Dolphins team, if nothing else than to be the cornerstone to build upon for upcoming games.

Arizona Cardinals Vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Moderator Game Ball

cdeveau — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 17:52:12 -0000

Alex Mann wrote up a nice little player of the week poll from Arizona's victory over the Eagles, and it can be found here. Taking that a step further, I wanted to see which player the ROTB moderators felt deserved the game ball for their play on the field.

Here are the moderators' takes on game ball recipient.

Jess Root breaks down his decision this way, "While Rhodes would be a great choice, I'm giving a game ball to Daryl Washington. He had two sacks and really was the guy to set the tone, hitting Michael Vick on their second play from scrimmage. He had less tackles than in previous weeks -- "only" six, but was everywhere, playing in coverage and rushing Vick. He also threw the key block that got James Sanders to the end zone, sprinting up the field from many yards behind to do it."

Tyler Nickel was akin to Jess with his mindset, "My player of the game is Kerry Rhodes for the sack/forced fumble, the stop on the 1 yard line and for taking A-Dub's place with all the big hits. Big game from Rhodes who I believe was the key player on the D."

Randy Fields covered the broad spectrum with his analysis, "This week it's really tough to pick only one player. Rhodes stepped up and had his best game as a Cardinal but Daryl Washington set the tone and kept the energy flowing for the Defense. His run down the sidelines to make the block showed the "play hard until the whistle blows" mindset that has been installed in this defense. Rhodes kept the Eagles from getting points and caused the turnover that lead to the amazing run back, but Washington sprinted to the front of the convoy from a trailing position."

Randy then mentioned that Kevin Kolb needed to be part of the discussion as well, "I feel that we need to toss Kevin Kolb's name somewhere into this discussion as well. He threw for 17 for 24, 222 yards, 70.8% CMP, 2 TDs, and zero turnovers for a 127.4 QB rating to follow last weeks 82.3 QBR. This is the kind of QB play we had hoped for from Kolb last year, and we're getting it now a year later and behind a statistically less proven offensive line and without a real running game to keep a balanced game plan to keep defenses honest. I like what I'm seeing and he deserves some recognition for his sudden renaissance. One more game and I'll be a true believer."

But in the end, there can be only one, and Randy's overall choice is, "This one was hard to select, but I have to say D-Wash. And it was on his featured collectible cup day, come on, that has to count for something."

Jesse Reynolds feels that the game ball should go to, "Kerry Rhodes. If the tackle on the one yard line wasn't enough he comes up with a huge hit on Vick that led to a fumble. Rhodes has been outstanding this year."

GreaZzy started off by mentioning four players, and then breaking it down from there, his thoughts are, "Four players immediately come to mind when I think of gameballs for this week: Sam Acho, Kerry Rhodes, Larry Fitzgerald, and Calais Campbell. All four men had outstanding games against the Eagles and we're huge reasons for a Cardinal victory. But in the end, I have to change my vote from Kerry to Sam Acho. Acho is a great combination of athletic ability, instinctual reactions, and cerebral knowledge that has made him become one of the top 15 OLBs in the NFL already in his young career. He was a stud in every facet of defense, and has become the perfect 3-4 OLB in Horton's scheme."

And as for myself, I think that this week there is only one choice. "Kerry Rhodes. A sack and forced fumble after a nasty hit on Michael Vick. He blew up Brent Celek. Denied DeSean Jackon at the 1 yard line. He stepped up and made game changing plays, earning my vote as player of the week."

Tune in next week for the next round, after the Cardinals take on the visiting Miami Dolphins.

2012 NFL Power Rankings, Week 4: Cardinals Climb Into Top 5

cdeveau — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 18:28:22 -0000

The Cardinals are on a roll, one of three undefeated teams left in the 2012 season. See where the #Birdgang and the other teams ended up in the power rankings heading into the fourth week of the season.

1) Atlanta Falcons: 3 - 0. Matt Ryan is playing great football, and with all the weapons surrounding him, the Falcons have no issue moving the ball. And the defensive product they are putting on the field has been ball hawkish and dangerous.

2) Houston Texans: 3 - 0. Another scary defense couples with Matt Schaub and a prolific offense. They went on the road and handled a Peyton Manning led Denver Broncos team last week.

3) New York Giants: 2 - 1. Injuries to receivers and running backs? No problem. Eli Manning is an enabler, and that helped the Giants put a beating on the Carolina Panthers last week. The defending showed the world why they won rings last year.

4) Arizona Cardinals: 3 - 0. Kevin Kolb is managing the game and the defense is introducing QBs to turf at a frantic rate.

5) Baltimore Ravens: 2 - 1. Still a dynamic defense. Ray Rice is dangerous on the ground and Joe Flacco and the air assault got a jump start last week.

6) San Francisco 49ers: 2 - 1. The lost in a road game back east. But don't sleep on the 49ers, they're still very real.

7) Cincinnati Bengals: 2 - 1. Explosive. That's the offense that Andy Dalton and the Bengals employ.

8) Green Bay Packers: 1 - 2. Yes, they are 1 - 2. I'm not taking anything away from the Seahawks, but the call will be infamous.

9) Seattle Seahawks: 2 - 1. The third of three NFC West teams in the top 10. The defense worked over the Packers last night.

10) Chicago Bears: 2 - 1. As Jay Cutler goes, so do the Bears. Scary isn't it?

11) Dallas Cowboys: 2 - 1. They pulled off a victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at home, but does anyone that watched believe the Cowboys aren't struggling?

12) Buffalo Bills: 2 - 1. Just keep running the ball. The injury to C. J. Spiller makes that a but tough though. Time to see how the Bills investment in Ryan Fitzpatrick has paid off.

13) Philadelphia Eagles: 2 - 1. Michael Vick must think he's Santa Claus, with the 12 turnovers on the season. You can't win games by doing that, as the Eagles found out Sunday versus the Cardinals.

14) Pittsburgh Steelers: 1 - 2. Injuries and penalties. That's what's holding the Steelers back currently.

15) New England Patriots: 1 - 2. Is the era of the Patriots drawing to a close? A 1 - 2 start against other contenders may point to that conclusion.

16) Minnesota Vikings: 2 - 1. They stunned the big bad 49ers and made the vaunted 49ers defense look slow and inept. That's got to be a nice pick me up for the Vikings.

17) San Diego Chargers: 2 - 1. Undefeated until they ran into the buzz saw that is the Atlanta Falcons defense. The Chargers were outplayed in every facet of that game. Time to regroup.

18) New York Jets: 2 - 1. Sure the jets beat the Dolphins, but I wouldn't call in winning, and nor would Charlie Sheen. To top that off, they lose Darrelle Revis for the year.

19) Denver Broncos: 1 - 2. Now Peyton Manning must know what it feels like. The Texans repaid Manning for all those years of division dominance. Don;t you wish you'd inked with the Cards now Peyton?

20) Kansas City Chiefs: 1 - 2. Look no further than the front office for the core of the dysfunction. It has trickled down to the team. The only bright spot is that Jamaal Charles is running at a frantic pace.

21) Detroit Lions: 1 - 2. The Lions, all the talent in the world, but they haven't put it together this season. Can Matthew Stafford turn the Lions around?

22) St. Louis Rams: 1 - 2. Chippy, fighters. I heard it explained best, they might not show up in the win column, but the Rams are going to be in it every week. That's exactly what they're doing under the new tutelage of Jeff Fisher.

23) Washington Redskins: 1 - 2. RGIII might need to talk to Michael Vick about how many hits a body can take before it breaks down. It's a shame, if the D could have stayed healthy, the Redskins would be a force.

24) Tennessee Titans: 1 - 2. They were winners last week, but they face off against the Texans this week. Look for another notch in the L column.

25) Oakland Raiders: 1 - 2. They beat the Steelers last week, after the Steelers committed penalty after penalty. This week is the Broncos. Carson Palmer needs to have another strong outing.

26) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 1 - 2. Tough losses to mediocre teams in the Jets and the Cowboys. Schiano's team is know for playing through the final snap of the game. Maybe that will turn into being know for wins, but not today.

27) Jacksonville Jaguars: 1 - 2. They beat the Colts last week. But as much as that is a reason to celebrate, it really isn't a good reason at all, as the Colts are struggling just as mightily this season.

28) Indianapolis Colts: 1 - 2. They have Luck on their side, but Andrew can't help the defense when it can't stop the run or the pass.

29) Carolina Panthers: 1 - 2. Steve Smith let Cam Newton have an earful. It was a bad game, but Newton can't let that game dictate the rest of the season.

30) Miami Dolphins: 1 - 2. It doesn't get any easier as the Dolphins make their way to Glendale to face the ferocious D of the Cardinals.

31) New Orleans Saints: 0 - 3. What a difference a scandal makes. From the rafters to the cellars in less than a year.

32) Cleveland Browns: 0 - 3. There are small flickers of light at the end of the tunnel, but the tunnel doesn't end in 2012. Find your peace with the first pick of the 2013 draft Browns fans.

There you have it, my take on the power rankings for week 4. What do you think? Let the world know in the comments below.

Arizona Cardinals Vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Bonehead Play Of The Game

cdeveau — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 18:14:50 -0000

Interestingly enough, I've written about the play of the game from the Arizona Cardinals victory, it can be be found here. Now I get to write about the bonehead play from the victory. Yes, even with the 27 - 6 drubbing the Cardinals bestowed upon the Philadelphia Eagles, there were some bad decisions on the field.

Hit the jump to see which plays made the list for Bonehead play of the game.

Really? No really? I thought that a few times during yesterday's game as I watched a flag fly or a play get blown up. I've compiled the contenders below for judgement.

First up, whoever decided to run the PatCat offense on second and six from the Eagles 17 yard line. Really? The offense was moving the ball, Kevin Kolb doing good things. And then this call, which the Eagles keyed up on and stuffed Patrick Peterson for a four yard loss, courtesy of Nnamdi Asomugha.

The very next play the mojo was gone. Kolb comes back in and the offensive protection goes downhill. Kolb gets sacked by Trent Cole and Jason Babin for a loss of 8 yards.

A delay of game penalty? Really? Those are drive killers, and that's what this one helped to do, three and out, c'est la vie.

Flags they fly, and this one flew for Anthony Sherman, unsportsmanlike conduct. 15 yards...Really? Drive killer.

On the very next play we get another flag display, this one on D'Anthony Batiste for holding. 10 more yards. Really? Guess what, that's the sound of a punt I hear.

Andre Roberts was a man possessed to get those YACs, (Yards after catch) His reception from Kolb that he turned into a scamper all the way down to the Eagle's three was a thing of beauty. What's that, a flag? On Larry Fitzgerald, illegal block. 10 yards. D'oh! Bring that ball all the way back to the Arizona 35 yard line.

So which of these really moments from yesterday's win over the eagles takes my vote for Bonehead play of the game award? In weighing these out, I have to come to the only conclusion. Anthony Sherman's 15 yards for unsportsmanlike conduct cost the team a first down and momentum, occurring after the play was done, by pushing and shoving.

On a side note, did anyone see Michael Floyd block Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie into the air like DRC was a rag-doll? Even better, DRC's bonehead moment when he came back and pciked up 15 yards for unnecessary roughness by shoving Floyd back. Priceless!

What do you think the bonehead play of the game was? Let the world know in the poll below.

Poll

What was the Bonehead play from the Cardinal's victory over the Eagles?

PatCat offense when Kolb had momentum

78 votes

Offensive protection breakdown, Kolb sack

8 votes

Delay of game penalty

12 votes

Anthony Sherman, unsportsmanlike conduct

92 votes

D'Anthony Batiste, holding

7 votes

Larry Fitzgerald, illegal block

170 votes

Other, explain below

5 votes

372 votes | Poll has closed

Arizona Cardinals Vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Play Of The Game

cdeveau — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 16:17:04 -0000

27 - 6, and a thorough game for the Arizona Cardinls as they handled the Philadelphia Eagles. Was it perfect? No. Coach Whisenhunt and the players have all said as much. But it had plenty of big moments from which to choose a play of the game.

Hit the jump below to see which made my selection as candidates for this weeks' competition.

The contenders were so prestigious that four of the five sacks against Michael Vick didn't even make the list. One each by Quentin Groves and O'Brien Schofield, and two by Daryl Washington.

And now for the contenders:

First up comes a dynamic special teams gem. Forced into a 3 and out, the Cardinals punt the ball away. The Eagles Damaris Johnson fields and begins a run-back when he is tackled by Anthony Sherman who forces the ball out. And long-snapper, yes I said long-snapper, Mike Leach recovers at the Philly 38 yard line.

Points on the board make the second entry to the contest. Rookie WR Michael Floyd pulls down a questionable throw into traffic from Kevin Kolb. It's Floyd's first regular season TD and he shows the concentration and hands the Cards selected him for. A beautiful 8 yard TD catch and run.

The defense slides into the contest as well, with OLB presence Sam Acho pushing the ball out of Vick's clutches as he made the tackle. Big Dan Williams recovers the ball on the Cards' 35 yard line.

The offense again claims a spot, putting more points on the board. Kevin Kolb managed 2 TD tosses in the game, the first was the Floyd, the second to the youngest player to 700 catches, Larry Fitzgerlad. Off play action, Larry splits the middle with single coverage and Kolb put's it on the money from 37 yards. Larry rolls through the goal-line, beating Nnamdi Asomugha for 6.

Defense again, all on the play of Kerry Rhodes. The Eagles are driving, on the Cards' 15 yard line and Vick hits DeSean Jackson for a quick catch. Rhodes meets Jackson at the Arizona 1 yard line and stonewalls the receiver, denying him the end zone.

Defense finishes off the list, as Kerry Rhodes and James Sanders combine on a highlight reel worthy entry. Fresh off his stop at the one yard line of DeSean Jackson, Kerry Rhodes comes off the edge and folds Vick in half, separating the QB from the ball. James Sanders scoops the ball up and following the beautiful seal of black jerseys, takes it 93 yards for a touchdown with time expired in the half.

Taking my vote is the combo play of Rhodes/Sanders. It was a nasty hit by Rhodes, a great run by Sanders, and heads up play by the entire defense to get 7. On top of that, the momentum shift was huge, as the Eagles were looking for points before halftime, and ended up with a punch to the throat.

Which play takes your vote? Vote for it in the poll below.

Poll

What was the play of the game in the Arizona Cardinals victory over the Philadelphia Eagles?

Anthony Sherman forced fumble Mike Leach recover

13 votes

Michael Floyd TD catch

16 votes

Sam Acho forced fumble Dan Williams recover

1 votes

Larry Fitzgerald TD catch

14 votes

Kerry Rhodes stop at 1 yard line

71 votes

Kerry Rhodes forced fumble James Sander recover and TD

361 votes

Other, explain below.

2 votes

478 votes | Poll has closed

NFC West Update And Opinion

cdeveau — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 19:47:21 -0000

Two weeks into the 2012 NFL season have provided a tantalizing glimpse at what the rest of the season's match-ups hold. Suspense aplenty as rookie Robert Griffin III lights up the New Orleans Saints in game one, and the Saints then fall to 0 - 2 on the season after yesterday's match-up with the Carolina Panthers. Another surprise to most of the NFL pundits is the NFC West. The best division in the NFL at this point in time.

The Arizona Cardinals and San Francisco share the top spot with 2 - 0 records, while the Seattle Seahawks and St. Louis Rams are still sitting pretty at 1 - 1.

Without further ado, make your way to the jump to continue the read on the NFC West.

Arizona Cardinals: (2- 0) The Cards garnered national attention yesterday when the beat the New England Patriots while visiting Foxborough. Back East, against the Pats, who were five seconds removed from winning the super bowl last season. The defense was a swarm, sacking Tom Brady four times courtesy of Sam Acho, Quentin Groves, and Calais Campbell twice. The front seven held the Pats run game to less than 100 yards for the day. Patrick Peterson was a blanket all day long, taking away a side of the field. Daryl Washington and Kerry Rhodes worked well in coverage against Rob Gronkowski.

One the offensive side, the Cards struggled at LT with pass protection. The line did make the way for the back to combine for over 100 yards on the ground. Kevin Kolb to Todd Heap worked, but Kolb needs to do better than 15/27. He did have a TD pass this game, once again to Andre Roberts, who is making the most of opportunities.

As I watched this game, and how the Cards beat the Seattle Seahawks last game at home, I am reminded by Kolb of Trent Dilfer, and the Baltimore Ravens defense that won a Superbowl. Stock up, with the Philadelphia Eagles coming to town.

San Francisco 49ers: (2 - 0) Last year they were one game removed from a Superbowl appearance, losing in the final minutes of regulation the the champion New York Giants. This year the 49ers started off strong by heading to Lambeau Field and putting up thirty on the Green Bay Packers to open the season. Yesterday Alex Smith to Vernon Davis looked seamless against the Detroit Lions. Smith has the look where the game is easy, and his numbers showed it, 20/31 for 226 yards and two TDs. The offense allowed Frank Gore to run wild, and combined the backs went well past 100 yards for the day.

On the defensive side, the 49ers picked Matt Staffford once, put together a couple of sacks, and held the Lions to less than 100 yards on the ground. Flipping that, the secondary did allow 230 yards on 19 completions, and they were also taken by some deep plays.

Stock up as the 49ers head east to visit the Minnesota Vikings.

Seattle Seahawks: (1 - 1) Rookie QB. College head coach. Say what you will, but the Seahawks let their play on the field do the talk they need. They lost a highly contested, close football game to division siblings the Cardinals at home. The Seahawks were in it until the end. Then they went home and hosted the Dallas Cowboys. The guys who were all full of swagger after their thumping of the defending champs, the Giants. And the Seahawks defense ate them up. The sacked Tomy Romo once, intercepted him once, and forced and recovered a fumble. As for the Dallas run game, it was less than 50 yards on the day.

The Seahawks offense also came to play, with rookie QB Russell Wilson going 15/20 and a TD. Marshawn Lynch ran in beast mode, 122 yards on 26 carries and 1 TD.

Golden Tate's block on Sean Lee sets the tone, and even though they have the Packers coming to town, I still give the Seahawks stock a buy signal.

St. Louis Rams: (1 - 1) The Rams were in shambles after last year. New coaching staff, new schemes, new players. But the new coach is Jeff Fisher, and he plays a hard-nosed type football. The run games shows that, as the Rams went well over 100 yards on the day. Sam Bradford also looks like the prospect he was touted to be coming out of college, throwing for 310 yards and 3 TD.

Defensively, the Rams picked Robert Griffin III once, and sacked him another time. They did let him run free though, and the rookie QB amassed 80 yards on the ground in addition to his 200 threw the air.

Stock is hold for now as the Rams head back east to visit the Chicago Bears.

Overall the NFC West has taken steps to poise themselves as the best division in the league not just now, but by the time the 20112 season is done.

Arizona Cardinals/New England Patriots: Cardinals' Player Of The Game

cdeveau — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 14:48:41 -0000

Wow. All the articles today are abuzz with how the Arizona Cardinals shocked the New England Patriots. They also shocked me, as I didn't have them picked to win yesterday's game. I've never been more happy to eat crow pie.

The defense was all over the field and held the Patriots to just 18 points. The offense did enough to put points on the board and keep drives alive. And the Cards managed this at Gillette stadium, where before today's game, the Patriots were riding a ten game win streak for their home openers.

Hit the jump to see my nominees for the Cardinals' player of the game, along with who I felt edged everyone else for the top spot.

First on my list is a man who had one tackle and one sack for the game. O, and a blocked punt that became Cardinals' ball on the Patriot's two yard line. Quentin Groves, who made the most of his playing time for the injured O'Brien Schofield.

Next up, and I mean way up, is Calais Campbell who amassed two sacks, seven tackles, and three assists in the game. He was dominant in both the run and pass game of the defense.

Another member of defense to make this list should change him moniker from PP21 to DIA21 (Does it all). In yesterday's game Patrick Peterson returned punts, had an interception off a Darnell Dockett tipped pass, played a couple of wildcat downs on offense that included one rush for 17 yards, three tackles, and provided solid coverage for the game.

Points on the board. Andre Roberts had some in yesterday's game. He only caught one pass for two yards, but Roberts made that catch count in the most important way. Nice move to get into the end zone off a quick pass to the outside from Kevin Kolb.

Speaking of Kevin Kolb, he had points on the board, no interceptions, and went 15/27 for 145 yards and that touchdown toss to Roberts. In addition to that, he had a nice QB draw up the middle for 4 yards and points on the board as he stretched out for the end zone while taking a few shots.

In going over it all, I fall back to what I've said earlier. It all flows through Kevin Kolb. And yesterday the flow was good. He managed the game, made enough plays, and kept the offense competent. He has to be my player of the game for week 2.

What do you think, who was the layer of the game? Let me know in the poll below. And tune in next week when the Cards come home and face the Philadelphia Eagles and their high octane offense.

Poll

Who was the Arizona Cardinals player of the game in Week 2?

Quentin Groves

131 votes

Calais Campbell

117 votes

Patrick Peterson

102 votes

Andre Roberts

3 votes

Kevin Kolb

83 votes

Other, explain below

14 votes

450 votes | Poll has closed

Arizona Cardinals/Seattle Seahawks: Post Game Quotes And Analysis

cdeveau — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 10:56:40 -0000

The first game of the 2012 regular season is in the books, and the Arizona Cardinals placed a check in the win column. The game itself was a chippy, physical game which I expect to be the norm for all NFC West division games from now on, and the final score of 20 - 16 displayed that.

However, even as sweet as victory is, there were issues that the Cardinals need to address before they move forward, or check-marks in the W column will prove to be very elusive. Hit the jump to see what the players and coaching staff had to say about the teams performance last night.

First quote of the game comes from a guy who started the game on the sideline, Kevin Kolb, who came in after John Skelton went down with an ankle injury. "This was pretty special, I'm not gonna lie." To be honest, to come off the bench and lead the team to a come from behind victory without getting any first team reps just shows that Kolb was ready. He also looked good in the no huddle, which gave the Cards some fire.

Adrian Wilson had this to say about Kolb's coming in off the bench, "I want to talk about Kevin. Let's talk about how poetic that was." This is high praise coming from Adrian Wilson, and once again readily deserved by what Kolb managed to do.

Even thought the Cardinals did win this game, I mentioned issues above. Coach Whisenhunt also made mention of them, including this quote. "We didn't run the ball very well. We have to get that fixed." With twenty-three yards on fifteen carries, I'd say you need to get that fixed pronto, or the season will turn long quickly.

Speaking of players who didn't get many reps, Michael Adams stepped up when Jamell Fleming went down and broke up a couple of passes on the final drive to safe guard the Card's lead. Here's what Money Mike said about it, "When your number is called, you go out and make plays. Today I was able to make plays. I'm living for today."

Keeping to the defensive side of the ball, Paris Lenon had a career high two sacks. When asked, here was his reply. "I just played within the scheme."

Darnell Dockett also stopped made sure to get in a few words of praise for Kolb's performance. "I'm so proud of Kevin Kolb to come in and really do something a lot of people probable didn't think he could do."

And lastly, a bit of humor regarding the time out situation when Coach Whis tried to call one right before the TD score by Andre Roberts. The officials missed him trying to make the call, and Coach Whis said this about it, "Thank God for small favors, right?"

That's it for the quotes. Tune in next week when the Cardinals head back east to play the New England Patriots. And go Cardinals!

2012 NFL Preview: Projecting Arizona Cardinals Wins And Losses

cdeveau — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 20:47:06 -0000

The preseason has wrapped up, and the 2012 regular season kicks off September 5th. The Arizona Cardinals have named their starting QB in John Skelton. The run game looks promising. Larry Fitzgerald is still an all star wide receiver, and the defense under Ray Horton's watch has top tier caliber.

So how will it all play out? Other writers have the Cardinals down in the cellar, winning five games or less. With that being said, I took a further look into the games upcoming and broke them down for wins and losses.

Hit the jump to see my W - L projection for each game.

Sunday 9/9 @ 1:15 PM: The Cards open their season at home, against an NFC West rival in the Seattle Seahawks. We know the other birds of the division well. Their 4-3 D is stout against the run, and they have big/physical DBs. On the offensive side of the ball the have a bruiser in RB Marshawn Lynch, who may be suspended. QB is rookie third round pick Russell Wilson. The Seahawks have the weapons to play good football if their Oline can stay healthy and Wilson operates the system like he did in pre-season. It is the rookie factor that is Seattle's hinge-pin though, if Wilson plays well, the Seahawks could very well improve on their 7 - 9 record of last year. However, this is the rooks first official game as a Seahawk, and the Cards are at home, riding a large home field advantage. I expect Ray Horton's defense to surge to the occasion and make Wilson's day miserable, which will cover for our slow start out of the gate offensively. Cards get a hard fought win here. W

Sunday 9/16 @ 10:00 AM: Speaking of hard fought, the Cards travel back East to take on the New England Patriots, orchestrated by Bill "Dark Overlord" Belichick and Tom "Precision" Brady. The secondary of the Cards will be tested by the duo of Robb Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez. The Cards front seven need to generate hurries/hits/sacks on Tom Brady to disrupt his rhythm. As Brady goes, so do the Pats. On offense, the Cards find themselves facing a statistically poor defense from last year that has been heavy imprinted by the past two drafts. Who surges to the occasion here, an offense with identity/QB questions or a fledgling defense? Call it a case of the back east curse, but the Cards lose a close one. L

Sunday 9/23 @ 1:05 PM: Things don't get easier for the Cardinals as they come home to face the freshly reloaded, highly touted Philadelphia Eagles. If you want to be talked about, beat the teams they're talking about. The Cards get a chance to do so against Michael Vick, the shifty LeSean McCoy, and WRs Jeremy Mackin and DeSean Jackson. O'Brien Schofield and Sam Acho will have their hands full, as will Patrick Peterson and William Gay. On the flip side, John Skelton will try and move the ball against a great secondary unit while the Oline gets tested again against a stout 4 - 3 front. At the end of the day, the Cards do come out winners, as they figure out how to contain Vick and co. W

Sunday 9/30 @ 1:05 PM: Another week at home, and momentum is riding with the Cards here. Next up, the Miami Dolphins. Another rookie enter the Bird Nest, as Ryan Tannehill shows up leading a team in flux. Reggie Bush was a thousand yard rusher last season, and is effective out of the backfield in the short passing game as well. But contain him and the Dolphins struggle to move the ball. Look for Adrian Wilson to have box duties. Darnell Dockett and Calais Cambell will face a stout offensive line, a good test for the front three. On the offensive side of the Cards unit, the D'Anothony Batiste will have his hands full with Cameron Wake. The linebacker duo of Karlos Dansby and Kevin Burnett will also test the run game. Look for Anthony Sherman to have a big day leading the RB tandem of Beanie Wells and Ryan Willams through the hole. On the edges Richard Marshall joins Vontae Davis in coverage, bringing his insight of the Cards with him. It matters not as the Cards show the Dolphins the way to the losers column. W.

Thursday 10/4 @ 5:20 PM: A good day to be a Cardinals player. A game in the division as they head back east to meet the St. Louis Rams for the first time this season. This is not the Rams of last year. Coach Fisher brings a new mindset to his team. Sam Bradford is healthy. The Oline is healthy. Steven Jackson is a stout runner, and like all the NFC West backs broke 1000 yards last season. However, the Rams lack a true deep #1 wideout. Look for the Cards to take advantage of this by bringing Adrian Wilson down into the box. The front three of Dockett, Campbell, and Dan Williams need to control the run game. As this is the fifth game of the season, I hope Stewart Bradley is manning the middle with Daryl Washington, who is a play-maker all over the field. On the flip side, the Card's offense is again tested by last years #1 pick Robert Quinn who is lined up opposite double digit sack artist Chris Long. Batiste and Bobby Massie have their work cut out as the bookends of the Cards Oline. Look for Todd Heap and Rob Housler to be used here in both the run and passing game. In the end, the Cards once again take a victory here. W

Sunday 10/14 @ 1:05 PM: The Cards come back riding a three game win streak. Arriving in town a bit later to meet them are the Buffalo Bills, who spent a good sum of money in the off season to become more talented. At this point in time I'm not certain of the man leading the offense, Ryan Fitzpatrick. However, he has much help in the way of RBs Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller. On the outside, Stevie Johnson commands attention on the outside. This game favors the Cardinals defense though, as Patrick Peterson will be given the one on one task of Johnson, leaving Kerry Rhodes free to roam the secondary. On the offensive side of the ball, the Cards have their major worry in the form of Mario Williams. He eats QBs three meals a day. If the Oline can protect Skelton, I see the Cards winning another game. W.

Sunday 10/21 @ 10:00 AM: Headed back east, the Cardinals face off against the Minnesota Vikings. Back east, cold, and facing a good Vikings team. Percy Harvin and Adrian Peterson give second year QB Christian Ponder plenty to work with, in addition to TE Kyle Rudolph. On the defensive side, Jared Allen is another top tier test for Batiste, who'll need a superb game to keep Skelton clean. If that can happen, there are opportunities to be had against Minnesota's secondary. But the wins are absent this day, and the Cards lose a close one. L.

Monday 10/29 @ 5:30 PM: Monday night football, and what a slobber-knocker the NFL has in store for you. The San Francisco 49ers come on over from the bay to play the Cards in a key division matchup. There is no love lost between these two teams. Each has a solid run attack, and talent at the wideout position. Vernon Davis is a pro bowl TE, and has emerged as one of the best in the game. Frank Gore and Kendell Hunter are dangerous out of the backfield with a one two of power and speed. Randy Moss and Michael Crabtree provide out for Alex Smith. On the defensive side, the 49ers sport Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman, two beasts in the middle. Aldon Smith was a terror off the edge last year, and I expect the OLB to keep it up this year. And DT Justin Smith is a name to remember as well. Look for the Cards to get a W here. But this W is hard earned and physical. W.

Sunday 11/4 @ 11:00 AM: The football gods must have been angry with the Cardinals when the schedule was being made. After a tough home game against the 49ers, they head back east to take on the dangerous Aaron Rodgers led Green Bay Packers. Jordy Nelson, Greg Jennings and Jermichael Finley provide the Packer's trigger-man with well known, reliable targets. On the defensive side, the Packers used the draft to get better, lining up rookie Nick Perry across from Clay Matthews. Charles Woodson still mans the secondary, providing the big hits. Ultimately, the Cards take another loss here, as all the variables are too much to overcome. L.

Sunday 11/18 @ 11:00 AM: Another back east game, against another very good team in the Atlanta Falcons. QB Mattew Ryan is living every QB's dream, throwing to Roddy White, Julio Jones and veteran future hall of famer TE Tony Gonzales in addition to bruising RB Michael Turner. One the defensive side of the ball is where the Card's can take advantage of the Falcons, utilizing Chris Wells and Ryan Williams as a solid one two punch. Look for that to open the play action game to Fitzgerald and rookie Michael Floyd. Another benefit is that the Cards get a bye week to prepare for the game. All these factors average out to a win for the #Birdgang. W

Sunday 11/25 @ 2:15 PM: The Rams again, at home. RB Beanie Wells had a standout game for the Cards last year against the Rams. Look for this to occur again, with a healthy dose of Ryan Williams. The defense needs to keep Jackson bottled up, which is never an easy assignment. They also need Sam Acho and O'Brien Schofield to get after Sam Bradford to make his life miserable. On the flip side, Skelton needs to let the run game develop and make the most of the play action pass attempts he gets. And protect the ball. At home, against the Rams, I see another win here. W.

Sunday 12/02 @ 11:00 AM: The Cards head back east to visit the New York Jets, who have similar QB issues with Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow. But make no mistake about it, the Rex Ryan defense is as stout as they come, with Calvin Pace crashing the edge and Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie manning the corner positions. This game should come down to the defenses, and who can make the opposing offense more uncomfortable. That being said, the Cards drop a nail biter to the Jets. L.

Sunday 12/9 @ 2:15 PM: Another division game greets the Cards as the head up to Seattle to take on the Seahawks for the second time in 2012. This time though, the Seahawks best the Cards for a win, using home field advantage and a strong running game to keep a close game in their favor. L.

Sunday 12/16 @ 2:05 PM: Home again, with the Detroit Lions here to visit. QB Matt Stafford to WR Calvin Johnson has become a household phrase for most of America. TE Brandon Pettigrew offers Stafford an escape valve as well. Kerry Rhodes, Adrian Wilson, and the secondary will have plenty to focus on this week. On the defensive side of the ball, the Lions have a terrific front four, with Ndamukong Suh, Cliff Avril, and Kyle Vanden-Bosch pushing the pocket. This will be a great challenge for the likes of Daryn Colledge, Lyle Sendlein, and Adam Snyder to keep John Skelton upright and to open holes for the Cards stable of RB's. I see a win here, but it won;t be an easy victory. W

Sunday 12/23 @ 2:15 PM: Home once again, two days before Christmas, and what a treat if you are a football fan. Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears are here for the holidays. With Cutler throwing the newly acquired Brandon Marshall, and Devin Hester's blazing speed down the sidelines, expect another test for the Cards secondary. Toss in Matt Forte running behind a well stocked Oline, and the defense will have to dig deep. On the flip side, Brian Urlacher and Julius Peppers are big names that can crush any offensive dream. To have success here, the Cards will have to go after the Bear's secondary. I just don;t know how well they will be able to do that, and so the Cards lose another game here. L.

Sunday 12/30 @ 2:15 PM: The last game of 2012, and the best for last indeed. The San Francisco 49ers, on their home turf. Both teams will be fired up to play ball. That's just the state of their rivalry. Both defenses will surge to the occasion. In the end though, the 49ers pull this game out in another hard fought struggle. L.

So there you have it, a 9 - 7 record for the cardinals this 2012 season. What do you think? To many, to few? Let me know below.

Poll

What will the Arizona Cardinal's 2012 regular season be?

Less than 7.

97 votes

7 - 9

62 votes

8 - 8

45 votes

9 - 7

91 votes

10 - 6

64 votes

More than 10.

21 votes

380 votes | Poll has closed

Arizona Cardinals: Time To Play Guess The QB

cdeveau — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 21:10:12 -0000

Hello folks, and welcome to another segment of Guess the QB. Today we'll be focusing on Arizona Cardinals starting QB John Skelton.

That's right fans, how well do you know your starting QB? Hit the jump to play the game.

For this game, the rules are this. Two seasons worth of stats. At least 5 games played, with those stats averaged and projected to 16 to make this work. There will be five QBs worth of stats displayed. Based upon those stats, you choose which one represents John Skelton's first two years.

QB #1:

COMP: ATT: YDS: TD: INT: SCK:

341 536 4038 28 13 34

350 541 4434 30 7 50

QB #2

COMP: ATT: YDS: TD: INT: SCK:

281 440 3032 19 13 44

373 601 3764 28 14 31

QB #3

COMP: ATT: YDS: TD: INT: SCK:

192 402 2118 20 20 29

302 550 3826 22 28 46

QB #4

COMP: ATT: YDS: TD: INT: SCK:

326 575 3739 26 28 22

331 533 4135 26 15 14

QB #5

COMP: ATT: YDS: TD: INT: SCK:

224 337 2995 19 13 34

224 357 3180 19 12 31

What do you think, which stat lines represent John Skelton? Use the poll below.

Poll

Which set of stat lines represents John Skelton?

QB #1

50 votes

QB #2

36 votes

QB #3

137 votes

QB #4

28 votes

QB #5

39 votes

290 votes | Poll has closed

Arizona Cardinals/Denver Broncos: Post Game Quotes And Analysis

cdeveau — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 10:30:28 -0000

The final pre-season game of 2012 is in the books, with the Arizona Cardinals once again taking an L in the win/loss column. Going into the half, the Cards had the lead, but the Denver Broncos managed to steal a last second victory on the leg of kicker Matt Prater.

Overall, this game was reminiscent of a western movie, The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly. Hit the jump to see what the players and the organization had to say about their performance.

The Good:

Rookie wide receiver Michael Floyd scored his first NFL touchdown, tipping a Ryan Lindley pass back to himself for the catch. He had this to say about the play, "I kept concentration on the ball the whole time. Luckily the guy hit me in the back to go toward the ball so it landed in my hands."

Ryan Lindley had some rookie moments, but went 14 of 26 for 176 yards passing. Lindley was pumped up about Floyd's catch, saying this. "I just tried to keep it away a bit because I saw the safety rolling over to get him. I put it behind him and he came up with it. That is what Mike does."

Lindley's performance impressed Coach Whisenhunt, both the accuracy and the way he come back in after QB Rich Bartel went down with a shoulder injury. Here are Coach Whiz's words on the rookie QB. "That's kind of been the way he's handled himself all camp without a lot of reps."

Although the starting QB carousel was out, some of the offensive starters did play, with Beanie Wells getting a few touches early on in the game, and looked sharp, posting a five yard per carry average. The RB had this to say about his performance. "I have to get my leg drive and get my feet under me." My thoughts are five yards a carry and he still needs to get his leg drive back bodes well for a team who will need to run the ball to compensate for the passing game.

The positive thing is that the offense looked crisp and moved the ball, which does a few things for the team, and Ryan Lindley noted these with this statement. "We drove down the field a few times and we got that one touchdown. We ate up a lot of clock and we kept the defense off the field. That's what you want to do."

I agree with Lindley, control the clock, move the ball. Keep your defense fresh. Let's hope the first team offense was paying attention to the game.

So now that pre-season is done, the Cards can look forward to a bruising game with division rivals the Seattle Seahawks.

Go Cards!

Arizona Cardinals: What The Bubble Players Need To Do

cdeveau — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 17:16:53 -0000

The last game of the 2012 pre-season looms large tonight as the Arizona Cardinals welcome the Denver Broncos to University of Phoenix stadium. With final cuts to be done tomorrow, this article will look at those players on the bubble and what they'll need to do in tonight's game to be safe once the cutting is done.

Hit the jump to see the players and the challenges ahead of them.

On the offensive side of the ball, there are a few roster spots still up for grabs, and we'll start with the field general.

QB:

Ryan Lindley - As a 2012 draft prick, all Lindley has to do is prove that he has more upside than the second coming of Derek Anderson. He's starting tonight, so this will be his opportunity to make his mark.

Rich Bartel - All Bartel can do is suit up tonight and pray that Lindley has an outing that shows him incapable of playing the position. O, and pack his bags.

RB:

Alfonso Smith - Has been a fixture of the team a few years and has even had some decent looks in pre-season, racking up yardage and scores. However, he may be neck in neck or just behind a guy who leads the league in yards for the pre-season. To win this spot, Smith has to be decisive in his running, find the end zone at least once, and shine in pass protection.

William Powell - Powell epitomizes a man making all he can of his chances. He's run hard in the pre-season and is the guy leading the league in rush yards. To win the spot, all he needs to do is continue to play at the level he's shown in each game so far.

Javarris James - To be frank, unless Smith and Powell go down with injuries, there is nothing James can do in his last game to unseat the two RBs mentioned prior to him.

WR:

LaRon Byrd - Byrd needs to perform in this game like he has the rest of the pre-season games. Make tough catches down the sideline and across the middle. Show up on special teams.

Stephen Williams - Suit up, but last report has him nursing an Achilles injury. I think this might be the last hurrah for the young man who shined as a pre-season warrior two seasons in a row.

Isaiah Williams - Williams name hasn't been called much this pre-season, and with one spot up for grabs, I don't see him outpacing Byrd for it. But if he were to have a monster game with 100 plus yards, with a majority of those coming after the catch and a few TD's, he might steal it away.

TE:

Jim Dray - Dray has been on the team a few years, but has yet to develop into the TE to crack the starting spot. He has been quiet in pre-season games, and I expect this to be his final year with the team.

Steve Skelton - Skelton has done more in pre-season that Dray has, including a few receptions. If the Cardinals carry four, look for him to be the 4th spot.

Martell Webb - Webb appears to be a young man who has potential, but is caught in the numbers game. I don't see him being able to do anything to change that

OL:

Nate Potter - Even with the issues at tackle, I don't see any chance of the Cards carrying Potter on their final 53.

Senio Kelemente - I don't see any chance of the Cards carrying Kelemente on their final 53.

Rich Ohrnberger - If the Cards carry 9 players on the offensive line, expect Ohrnberger to make the roster.

Scott Wedgie - Expect Wedgie to be the backup center on the Cards roster.

Now to the defensive side of the ball, where we will once again start with the field general.

ILB:

Quan Sturdivant - Quan needs to have another solid outing and hope that the Cardinals decide that Bradley has outplayed Lenon, and that youth is the way to go.

Colin Parker - There is currently nothing Parker can do to make the final 53.

OLB:

Antonio Coleman - I don't see Coleman making the roster at OLB, he'd have to piggyback players who have popped in pre-season games.

Clark Haggans - To be honest, I like Haggans, but I think his time is behind him. That being said, if he has a big game tonight Card's brass might keep him in favor of youth.

Brandon Williams - Williams has shown in pre-season and appears to be set to be second string behind Sam Acho.

Quentin Groves - Groves needs to have another solid outing tonight and then hope that the Cards go with youth over age and experience, or he could fall victim to Haggans.

DL:

Rickey Lumpkin - Unless the Cards carry seven defensive linemen, expect Lumpkin to not make the cut.

Ronald Talley - Unless the Cards carry seven defensive linemen, expect Talley to not make the cut.

Everette Thompson - Unless the Cards carry seven defensive linemen, expect Thompson to not make the cut.

DB:

Michael Adams - Adams needs to have a stellar outing on special teams and show that in coverage he is not the liability that most of the Card's fan base thinks he is.

Crezdon Butler - Butler will need to show up on both special teams and show that he can play multiple DB positions to make this team.

Greg Toler - Toler needs to show that his knee is 100% and knock the rust off, otherwise he will be on the outside looking in.

Blake Gideon - Gideon has done some nice things in pre-season games this year, but as a rookie, I don't see him cracking the 53 this year.

A.J. Jefferson - Jefferson needs to look good in special teams and also show competence in the secondary to take the spot from Adams or Toler.

Larry Parker - Parker has done some nice things in pre-season games this year, but as a rookie, I don't see him cracking the 53 this year.

And there you have it, my take on what the bubble players can do, if anything to grab a spot on the 53 man roster. Good luck to them all tonight. And go Cardinals!

Arizona Cardinals/Oakland Raiders: How The Non Starters Did.

cdeveau — Sat, 18 Aug 2012 17:17:25 -0000

By now everyone should know that the Arizona Cardinals won their preseason home opener, beating the Oakland Raiders thirty-one to twenty-seven.

The starters were part of that equation, but on the other side, the non starters played a good amount of time on both sides of the ball. Hit the jump to see how each unit did.

On the defensive, the Cards are starting to develop nice depth.

For the DLine, David Carter got pressure on the QB, dropped into pass coverage and defended the run. 6th round gold mine! Teammates Ronald Talley and Ricky Lumpkin also defended well against the run. Lumpkin however, did have a costly roughing the passer penalty. Veteran Nick Eason also played well in few snaps, showing solid run stopping technique.

The linebackers also have developed nicely. Reggie Walker gets mention here, but this week he saw first string snaps. Another ILB to pop this game was Quan Sturdivant. He had numerous run support plays where the contact was stopped at or behind the line of scrimmage. He dropped into pass coverage and looked good. Colin Parker and Marcus McGraw also added a stop in run support defense. At the OLB spots, Quentin Groves notched a sack and was solid in run support while Brandon Williams was active as well, defending the run and playing the pass.

Into the secondary we hop. CB Jamell Flemming was solid again in run support, and is a sure tackler, but his completion percentage gives me some cause for concern. There was also a couple of flags tossed his way, but the calls were questionable, and I feel he made good plays. A.J. Jefferson contributed a nicely defended pass to save a touchdown. FS Justin Bethel blocked a punt, a FG, and was solid in run support. SS Rashad Johnson also had a good night in both the pass and run game, making plays near the line of scrimmage. Blake Gideon was another name to stand out from the game, showing nice run stop support from the SS position.

Now we head over to the offensive side of the ball.

At QB, there is the man behind Lindsanity. And he looked mortal last night. Taking a strip/sack, throwing a pick. Rookie QBs are works in progress. The he settled down behind a run game and finished 5/10 for 84 yards.

The RB crew was busy, but leading the way was William Powell, who averaged over five yards per carry, and scored a TD in the process. Javarris James also broke off a few nice runs, but missed on some blocks in pass protection. Thomas Clayton hurt his chances by coughing the ball up. Alfonso Smith had a quiet night, with two carrier for four yards.

The WR group with first round Michael Floyd was rather quiet. Stephen Williams and DeMarco Sampson each pulled down a reception of thirty yards. Floyd was targeted only once. Jaymar Johnson touched the ball for an eight yard end around. Overall, the pack remains tightly bunched.

For the TE grouping, Rob Housler looked sharp in both the receiving and run aspects of the offense. He finished the night 3/4 for 26 yards. The only time Jim Dray came to mind is when he was called for a holding on a special teams play.

On the OLine, the second stringers showed push off the line of scrimmage for the run game, and in pass protection other than the strip/sack of Ryan Lindley, looked decent as well. With the injury to Levi Brown and the play of D'Anthony Batiste last night, look for some tinkering to be done to the line. Rookie Bobby Massie looked steady at RT, when he was plugged into the lineup.

Overall, I saw promise from the second wave of depth, as well as from some of the rookies and undrafted free agents.