As witnessed throughout the pre-season the Cardinals offense is going through some growing pains.
Whether it be a revolving door at quarterback (which looks like will continue) or key injuries along the offensive line, they need a little help from their friends.
Those “friends” happen to wear the same colored uniforms, but play on the opposite side of the ball.
If Sunday’s performance against the Seahawks was any indication, the Cardinals defense, a mix of seasoned veterans and talented young players, could be as good as advertised in 2012.
Ray Horton’s unit held the Seahawks to one touchdown and more importantly kept Seattle out of the end zone in the closing minute after rookie quarterback Russell Wilson marched his team down to the Arizona six. One short run, followed by three straight incompletions turned the ball over on downs and sealed the Cards season-opening win.
“It’s all about team,” cornerback Patrick Peterson said. “We came out firing. We got three-and-outs, and made key stops when we needed to. It’s all about having each other’s back, just going out there and playing with relentless effort, and just having fun playing football.”
The Big Red defense allowed just 254 total yards Sunday and Seattle converted only 5-16 third downs (31%). They also sacked Wilson three times, including two by linebacker Paris Lenon.
“Our defense came through,” Pro Bowl wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald told the media after the win. “Those guys fought for us all day and kept us in the game and held them down long enough until we were able to get our stuff together that second half.”
The test will be much tougher next week when the Cards travel cross country to face Tom Brady and the New England Patriots, but it’s always nice to start the season with a win over a divisional foe.
