Cardinals Beat Seahawks 20-16, Kevin Kolb Relieves Injured John Skelton Effectively

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Cardinals Injury Report: Beanie Wells, Ryan Williams Practice Fully

Arizona Cardinals running backs Beanie Wells and Ryan Williams were both full participants in Wednesday's practice and should play in Sunday's game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass., according to Rotoworld.com.

Wells is nursing a right knee injury that caused him to miss significant time last season and was nagging during last week's opener. Williams, a second-year player out of Virginia Tech, was absent from the team's injury report after tearing the patellar tendon in his right knee during his rookie campaign.

Both backs will have a difficult task ahead in facing a Patriots run defense that held Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson to a paltry four yards on 11 carries during Week 1. Given their injury histories and their opposition, they could each be in for a long day on Sunday afternoon.

Wells should get the start over Williams, who earned the nod in Week 1 due to the former Ohio State Buckeye's ailing knee.

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• 9 months ago
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The NFL Needs To Replace The Replacement Referees

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John Skelton Injury: Cardinals QB Will Miss 2-4 Weeks

Arizona Cardinals quarterback John Skelton is expected to miss two to four weeks with an ankle sprain suffered in the fourth quarter of Sunday's 20-16 win over the Seattle Seahawks. Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reports that, according to his source, the situation remains in flux:

At one point on Monday, the thinking was that Skelton could be back by Week Three, when the Eagles come to town. Instead, it appears that Kevin Kolb will get the call when the Cardinals go to New England in Week Two, host Kolb’s Eagles the next Sunday, possibly the Dolphins in Week Four, and even on the high end face the Rams when the Cardinals go to St. Louis on a short week for Week Five.

Skelton's injury is now known to be a low ankle sprain, which is of less concern than the high variety. Kevin Kolb will start at least at New England when the Cardinals visit the Patriots in Week 2.

For more on Skelton's injury and the Cardinals, please check out Revenge of the Birds.

• 9 months ago
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Cardinals Vs. Seahawks: Ken Whisenhunt Discusses Phantom Timeout

The Arizona Cardinals nearly got jobbed in their game with the Seattle Seahawks when their opponent was awarded a fourth timeout late in the game. Seattle had been charged their final timeout when Doug Baldwin went down with an injury. As is the case when players go down with an injury in the final two minutes (running clock or non-running clock), a team must spend a timeout or incur a penalty of some sort. But Pete Carroll called a timeout two plays later, and the NFL officials ended up awarding a stop in play that did not exist.

Luckily for Arizona (and probably the NFL), the Seahawks did not score on this drive, and the Cardinals went on to win their game.

Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt talked about the timeout and how happy he was that this timeout didn't affect the outcome of the game. Here's a snippet of his quote there

I obviously feel a lot better than I would have had we not won the game. It’s a tough situation. It’s hard to say how I would have reacted to something, but I think the important thing about this was our guys didn’t let it affect them. Our players knew that they shouldn’t have had a timeout, and in that situation where they had the ball, at the six-yard line with no timeouts, you play the pass, because if they run the ball it’s tough for them to be able to run another play, but our guys played it honest and did a nice job of tackling [Marshawn] Lynch on that play.

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• 9 months ago
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Cardinals QB Kevin Kolb Not Yet Named Starter, Remains Upbeat

Following a John Skelton ankle injury suffered by the starter during the Arizona Cardinals' 20-16 win over the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, the Arizona Cardinals' quarterback situation became even more dynamic, and backup Kevin Kolb understands that nothing is guaranteed in the NFL.

With Skelton expected to miss some time with the ailment, all eyes are on Kolb, who battled for the starting job and lost out on it following training camp.

"You realize it's never as bad or never as far away as you think," he said. "This league has taught me that in the past."

Kolb is approaching the game with the mentality that he has earned another opportunity to compete for the job. Head coach Ken Whisenhunt was non-committal in his prediction for what would happen following Skelton's return.

Kolb went 6-for-8 for 66 yards in relief of Skelton.

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• 9 months ago
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Don't Expect Too Much No-Huddle Offense From Arizona Cardinals

After quarterback Kevin Kolb took over for John Skelton in Sunday's 20-16 win over the Seattle Seahawks, many are wondering why the Arizona Cardinals don't employ a no-huddle offense more often.

Kolb had success on Sunday orchestrating the offense down the field with the no-huddle, and used it pretty well in the preseason as well.

But as Kolb told Fox Sports Arizona, the no-huddle only works well when you are advancing down the field.

"The downside is you don't give your defense a rest if you are to go three-and-out. You're out there for 40 seconds and the defense is right back on the field," Kolb said. "You have to be careful with it, especially with a good defense like we have."

Coach Ken Whisenhunt also approves of the no-huddle, but only to a certain degree. As he points out, teams adapt to one-trick ponies, and the best offense is the one that keeps a defense on its toes.

"If you do only one thing, teams are going to scheme to stop it," he said. "You have to be able to stay in a conventional offense and try to run the football."

Kolb has used the no-huddle offense since high school and is ready to use it when the coaches say so. The Cardinals plan to use the no-huddle offense with both of their quarterbacks when the timing is right.

Stick with SB Nation Arizona for more Cardinals coverage, or check out Revenge of the Birds and join in the conversation.

• 9 months ago
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John Skeleton Injury: Quarterback Has Ankle Sprain, Could Play Week 2

Arizona Cardinals quarterback John Skelton has a low ankle sprain and may be able to play in Week 2, CBS Sports reports. Skelton went down with an ankle injury late in the fourth quarter of the Cardinals' victory over the Seattle Seahawks. Some reports had indicated that Skelton had suffered a high-ankle sprain, an injury known to plague NFL players for extended periods of time. Arizona head coach Ken Whisenhunt indicated Monday that that was not the case, it was a low ankle sprain, and Skelton could be back sooner rather than later.

The Cardinals were losing when Skelton left the game, and backup quarterback Kevin Kolb was able to lead the team to a late victory. If those circumstances led to any speculation that Kolb might make away with the starting job, Whisenhunt was quick to cut things off. "I don't even know why that would be a question," Whisenhunt said in response to a question about whether Skelton would be the starter when he returned.

Skelton finished Week 1 14-for-28 for 149 yards with no touchdowns and one interception. The Cardinals travel to New England to face the Patriots in Week 2.

Stick with SB Nation Arizona for more Cardinals coverage, or check out Revenge of the Birds and join in the conversation.

• 9 months ago
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For John Skelton, His First Game Of 2012 Was Truly A Tale Of Two Halves

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Cardinals Vs. Seahawks Postgame Notes: Kevin Kolb's 'Poetic' Comeback

Adrian Wilson didn't want to talk about the defense when he came out to address the media. He wanted to talk about Kevin Kolb and what he did. "Let's talk about how poetic that was," said Wilson. "The guy didn't get any reps in practice, really. John got all the reps and he came in and led the game-winning drive, so defensively, we just went out there and did our job. Kevin really should be the one to talk about right now."

Kolb came into the game after John Skelton hurt his ankle and promptly led the team to the winning touchdown. We went 6-8 for 66 yards and connected with Andre Roberts for a six-yard touchdown.

After the adversity he suffered the past year, it had to feel good. Kolb got hurt twice last season and saw the team win in his absence. He had chances to lead late game-winning drives and was not able to do it. He lost his starting job to Skelton in the preseason. It seemed like his career could not be going any worse.

"I told him it was poetic," Wilson explained. "To go through what he has been through and to have his opportunity and chance to step up, he did a hell of a job. It was poetic."

Was it any more special than other touchdowns?

"It was pretty special, I'm not going to lie," said Kolb after the game. "To win a game in that fashion the way the preseason went, I'll definitely enjoy this evening and tomorrow and then get back to work."

Larry Fitzgerald had praise for his teammate. "You've really got to commend Kevin for his effort coming in," he said. "He hadn't gotten many reps this week. John took everything. It was a really impressive performance."

After failed comebacks in Washington and Seattle last season, to do it at home and in relief had to feel good. Fans even booed him when he came in, only to be cheering three plays later.

With Skelton out definitely next Sunday and probably a few weeks more, this could be just the type of success Kolb needs to jumpstart his career here. Whether that means he ends up taking over here or just for a few starts until Skelton gets back, it could put him in a position to make him look the way he did when he was in Philadelphia.

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• 9 months ago
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Seahawks Vs. Cardinals Final Score: Kevin Kolb Leads Arizona To Game-Winning TD, 20-16 Victory

Kevin Kolb led the Arizona Cardinals in relief in the 4th quarter after John Skelton got injured, and he delivered. Kolb took Arizona down the field and led them to the go-ahead score, and the Cardinals would go on to beat the Seattle Seahawks 20-16.

The Cardinals fell behind to the Seahawks after Ryan Williams fumbled the football on his second carry of the season, setting up a chip shot Seattle field goal from Steven Hauschka. John Skelton then managed to march the Cardinals down the field with a 75-yard drive, as Skelton connected with Andre Roberts twice, Larry Fitzgerald once, and Williams once. Jay Feely's 21-yard field goal would tie the game at 3-3.

Then the Cardinals took the lead for the first time thanks to more great throws by Skelton. Skelton found Early Doucet for 32 yards on two catches and also connected with Jeff King and Todd Heap, setting up the LaRod Stephens-Howling one-yard touchdown run. Arizona increased their lead to 13-3 after Paris Lenon recovered a Russell Wilson fumble, setting up another Feely field goal.

The Cardinals special teams would then make two crucial mistakes to let Seattle back in it, as Leon Washington would scamper for an 83-yard kickoff return to set up a Seahawks touchdown connection with Wilson and Sidney Rice. Skelton would then throw an interception that set up another Seattle field goal, and then a second Washington return would set up the go-ahead field goal.

After Skelton got injured on the next drive, it was Kolb making all the big plays late. Kolb found Fitzgerald twice for 14 and 23 yards, Heap for 11 and eight yards, Stephens-Howling for four yards, and Roberts for the six-yard score. Seattle managed to drive the football into the red zone, but Wilson couldn't connect with any of his receivers.

Talk about the result with Cardinals fans by checking out Revenge of the Birds, and discuss the result with Seahawks fans by going to Field Gulls. Hit up the SB Nation NFL hub for more comprehensive pro football coverage.

• 9 months ago
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Cardinals Vs. Seahawks Score Update: LaRod Stephens-Howling Scores TD To Give Arizona 10-3 Lead At Half

In the second quarter, the Arizona Cardinals continues to look solid on both sides of the ball, while rookie quarterback Russell Wilson struggled. John Skelton led the Cardinals on an 11-play, 58-yard drive that ended in a LaRod Stephens-Howling one-yard touchdown run, and the Cardinals went into halftime with a 10-3 lead.

So far, John Skelton has been more than what his team has needed, completing 11/17 passes for 124 yards. He has spread the ball around. Andre Roberts and Early Doucet each have three receptions and Larry Fitzgerald has two for 26 yards.

For Seattle, the heralded rookie Wilson coming out of the preseason has been harassed by the Cardinals defense. He has completed 6/11 passes for 59 yards and was picked off to end the half.

Running back Marshawn Lynch has carried the load for Seattle, running the ball 10 times for 40 yards.

It has been a half littered with penalty flags. Each team has six penalties.

Arizona has 154 yards of total offense, as the running game has been shut down so far for a total of 30 yards, half of which came on one play by Andre Roberts. Seattle has been held to 113 yards.

Each team has turned the ball over one time. The Cardinals will have the ball coming out of halftime.

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• 9 months ago
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John Skelton Playing Well, But Brett Favre He Is Not

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Cardinals Vs. Seahawks Score Update: Tied At 3 After 1 Quarter

If you were expecting a high-scoring affair between the Arizona Cardinals and the Seattle Seahawks, then you were misinformed. With two strong defensive teams a high-scoring affair was not on the menu. So far, in one quarter, it is holding true. Seattle took advantage of a Ryan Williams fumble and John Skelton led the Cardinals on an effective scoring drive, each team kicking a short field goal to make the score 3-3 after one quarter.

Seattle got the ball first and was aided by a pass interference penalty on Patrick Peterson that went for 28 yards. But the defense stiffened after that forced a 50-yard field goal that Calais Campbell tipped.

Two plays into the Cardinals' first drive Ryan Williams, who started at running back in place of Beanie Wells, was ruled to have fumbled and recovered by Brandon Mebane. It looked like Williams might have already been down, but replays were not conclusive, and Seattle took over.

They went seven plays and Steven Haushka hit from 27 yards to give the Seahawks the lead.

The Cardinals took over and behind Andre Roberts got down inside the five-yard line. Roberts caught two passes for 26 yards and ran the ball for 15 yards on an end-around. John Skelton looked very good on the drive, completing 4-7 passes, but could not find the endzone.

Jay Feely hit from 21 yards to tie the score and that is how the first quarter ended.

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Seattle's first drive ended on missed 50 yard FG,

After williams fumbled (or not) seattle goes for 27 yd score

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NFL Week 1 Cardinals Vs. Seahawks: Arizona, Seattle Inactive Lists

The Arizona Cardinals are set to open up their 2012 regular season with a matchup against the Seattle Seahawks at 1:25 p.m. PT. A list of inactive Cardinals for Week 1 was tweeted out by beat writer Kent Somers:

Cardinals inactives: Lindley, Byrd, Toler, Powell, Westerman, Kelemete, Ohrnberger

— Kent Somers (@kentsomers) September 9, 2012

Been a mistake on inactives: Ohrnberger is active, McQuistan is not. Makes more sense since Ohrnberger is the backup C/G. #azcards— Kent Somers (@kentsomers) September 9, 2012

To recap, that's quarterback Ryan Lindley, wide receiver LaRon Byrd, cornerback Greg Toler, running back William Powell, linebacker Jamaal Westerman, guard Senio Kelemet and tackle Pat McQuistan.

For the Seahawks, running back Marshawn Lynch is active. Inactives, according to Seahawks.com, are below.

• Wide receiver Golden Tate
• Running back Kregg Lumpkin
• Cornerback Byron Maxwell
• Defensive lineman Greg Scruggs
• Guard John Moffitt
• Guard James Carpenter
• Defensive lineman Jaye Howard

For more on the Arizona Cardinals, head on over to Revenge of the Birds. For the Seahawks, check out Field Gulls. Be sure to visit the SB Nation NFL hub for even more good stuff.

• 9 months ago
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Arizona Cardinals Vs. Seattle Seahawks: What To Watch For

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Seahawks Vs. Cardinals: Key To Victory Could Be Defenses

The eyes will be on the quarterbacks and how they perform, with the Seattle Seahawks going with rookie Russell Wilson and the Arizona Cardinals letting John Skelton guide the offense in Week 1 of the NFL season on Sunday.

But the real key to victory for either team could be found in how the defenses perform against these quarterbacks.

Neither offense seems geared to explode, but both defenses have big-play capability. The Seahawdefensive coordinator. The Cardinals defense has posted seven forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, 10 interceptions and 27 sacks in the last eight games against the Seahawks. Arizona collected eight sacks in two meetings between the division rivals last season.

Seattle's defense is one of the more underrated in the league. With big, physical cornerbacks in Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner plus hard-hitting safeties Kam Chancellor and Earl Thomas, the secondary is strong. The Cardinals could have a hard time establishing the run against a solid Seahawks defensive front, especially with question marks on the offensive line and Beanie Wells banged up.

Look for Skelton to target Larry Fitzgerald a lot.

Get more Cardinals coverage at Revenge of the Birds.

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Seahawks Vs. Cardinals 2012: Game Preview, Kickoff Time, TV Schedule And More

It will be John Skelton at the helm when the Arizona Cardinals host the Seattle Seahawks to open the 2012 NFL season at University of Phoenix Stadium at 1:25 ET on Sunday.

Skelton won't be met with much fanfare as neither he nor Kevin Kolb were solid enough to win the No. 1 quarterback job early on in training camp. It took until after the final preseason game to determine that it would be the third-year man out of Fordham University under center to begin the season.

Even more intriguing will be how the Cardinals' offense will fare against Seattle's defense, which figures to be much-improved as it will be led by veteran Chris Clemons and anchored by a strong secondary. Further limiting the effectiveness of the Arizona offense will be the injuries to running backs Ryan Williams and Beanie Wells, who each had offseason knee surgeries.

Seattle rookie quarterback Russell Wilson will also have a lot on his shoulders as Seattle's leading rusher Marshawn Lynch is listed as questionable due to back spasms. If Lynch misses the contest, then it will make life difficult for the former Wisconsin Badger and give the Cardinals a distinct advantage.

For more on the Arizona Cardinals, head on over to Revenge of the Birds. For the Seahawks, check out Field Gulls. Be sure to visit the SB Nation NFL hub for even more good stuff.

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Did The Cardinals Act In Desperation To Get Kevin Kolb After Refusing To Pay Kurt Warner?

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NFL Picks Week 1 Seahawks Vs. Cardinals: Experts Resoundingly Like Seattle

NFL experts in the media aren't very confident in the Arizona Cardinals this week against the Seattle Seahawks.

Over at ESPN, only one expert -- former NFL quarterback Ron Jaworski -- out of the site's 14 who make weekly picks believes Arizona will come out with a win against Seattle. It doesn't get much better on CBSSports.com or YahooSports.com. Only two of eight experts at CBS and only one of three at Yahoo like the Cardinals' chances.

Out of the 25 analysts who make picks between the three sites, only 12 percent believe the Cardinals win, with a resounding 88 percent picking the Seahawks.

After finishing 8-8 last year and going through a quarterback competition during the preseason in which neither candidate played very well, the analysts' picks shouldn't surprise anyone. While Arizona is facing plenty of questions this season, the Seahawks have looked impressive under rookie quarterback Russell Wilson, going a perfect 4-0 during the preseason.

For more on the Cardinals, head over to Revenge of the Birds. For more on the Seahawks, check out Field Gulls.

• 10 months ago
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New Contract For Daryl Washington Is Just The News Fans Needed In The Midst Of Negativity

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NFL Picks Week 1: Seahawks Vs. Cardinals

As the Arizona Cardinals get ready to battle the Seattle Seahawks in their Week 1 matchup, NFL experts from around the globe prepare their picks for the eventual winner.

Over at ESPN, only one of the network's 14 NFL experts selected the Cardinals to win this matchup. That outlier is Ron Jaworski.

CBS Sports football experts have little faith in the Cardinals getting a win as well, as only two of nine selected Arizona, and only one was a human; Pete Prisco and the prediction machine took the Cards here.

Over at Walter Football, the Cards are predicted winners by the score of 17-16.

For more in depth discussion and top notch analysis of the Arizona Cardinals make sure that you check out Revenge of the Birds. Seahawks fan? Don't worry, we've got you covered over at Field Gulls. For more on the league in general, please make your way over to SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

• 10 months ago
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Marshawn Lynch Listed As 'Day-To-Day' Heading Into Game Against Cardinals, But Expect Him To Play

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Arizona Cardinals 2nd Worst Team In Power Rankings? That's Just Plain Dumb

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NFL Odds Week 1: Cardinals Vs. Seahawks

The Arizona Cardinals are listed as 3-point favorites for their Week 1 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, according to OddsShark. The line opened with Pete Carroll's Seahawks favored by a point, but has since shifted. The over/under for the game is set at 40.5.

The Seahawks will begin the 2012 season with rookie signal-caller Russell Wilson under center. The team signed Matt Flynn to a three-year deal this offseason and expected him to battle Tavaris Jackson for the starting job, but the emergence of Wilson has relegated Flynn to a backup role for now.

The Cardinals had a bit of a quarterback controversy of their own, as they were the last team to make an announcement on their starting quarterback for the season opener. John Skelton had a rough preseason, completing 50 percent of his passes, but he nudged out Kevin Kolb for the starting job.

Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch could miss Sunday's game with back spasms, which would be a huge blow to a team who led all NFL teams in rushing yards during the preseason.

For more Arizona Cardinals coverage, check out Revenge of the Birds. For all of your NFL needs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

• 10 months ago
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Ken Whisenhunt Expects Marshawn Lynch To Play

Ken Whisenhunt isn't acting like Marshawn Lynch's status for Sunday's season opener is day-to-day. With the Seattle Seahawks running back dealing with back spasms, the Arizona Cardinal's are prepping as if he'll be ready to go, the Cardinal's head coach told The News Tribune.

"I expect him to play," Whisenhunt told The News Tribune, when asked if he was preparing for Seattle's offense any different because Lynch's back spasms might keep him out of the game. "It's not affecting our preparation. We're preparing that he's going to play."

Lynch has struggled with the back spasms throughout the preseason, and Seattle coach Pete Carroll told the media that the team would determine his status later on this week.

If Lynch isn't able to go against Arizona, Whisenhunt acknowledged that his squad will still be facing a Seahawks team with a tough running game. Veteran Leon Washington will see increased snaps if Lynch is out, as will bruiser Robert Turbin, a 222 pound rookie out of Utah State.

For more on the Arizona Cardinals, check out Revenge of the Birds. Hit up SB Nation's NFL hub for more coverage of the league heading into Week 1.

• 10 months ago
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Arizona Cardinals Don't Have As Much Cap Space As Some Might Think

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NFL Week 1: Arizona Cardinals Practice Squad Roster Looking For Shot

The Arizona Cardinals have a 53-man roster set ahead of the season opener against the Seattle Seahawks, but it is unlikely those same 53 will be on the active roster throughout the 2012 season. NFL rosters are fluid with injuries, underperformance and disciplinary issues. Many times it is the players on the practice squad who are the first to get the call to fill-in.

SB Nation's Revenge of the Birds took a look at who may be called upon from the practice squad this season:

First, I would have to start with Isaiah Williams. He has been with the Cardinals since 2010 and will know the scheme as good as anybody. If a wide receiver unfortunately were to get injured, I think Williams would have the edge over Robinson.

Steven Baker is another guy that has more than a decent chance at making the roster. The Cards are already shorthanded at the tackle position as it is and if someone either gets hurt or underperforms, Baker could get the call. He is a big player that, with some development, could have an impact for Arizona.

Those players will continue to get their shot at practice, and the guys on the active roster will be under pressure to perform starting with Week 1.

For more on the Cardinals, check out Revenge of the Birds and stick with SB Nation Arizona.

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2012 NFL Schedule, Week 1: Cardinals Host Seahawks, Cowboys Visit Giants

The Arizona Cardinals will begin their 2012 NFL regular-season schedule when they host the Seattle Seahawks at 1:25 p.m. Sunday. The two teams wrapped up the 2011 season in the same location, with the Cards taking the game in overtime.

Football-starved fans won't have to wait until Sunday to get their fix, as the Dallas Cowboys travel to the Super Bowl Champion New York Giants on Wednesday night. The Giants swept the series from the Cowboys in 2011 on their way to securing the NFC East title with a 9-7 record.

Sunday's action is highlighted by the San Francisco 49ers making a visit to the Green Bay Packers in a battle of division champions from a year ago. Sunday night will be capped off by star quarterback Peyton Manning's debut with the Denver Broncos as they take on the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Head to SI.com for a complete NFL Week 1 Schedule.

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• 10 months ago
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John Skelton As Starter, Practice Squad Players Discussed On Arizona Birdgang Podcast

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Larry Fitzgerald Ready to Get Back On the Path to a Super Bowl

With age comes wisdom, and in Larry Fitzgerald's case, the star Arizona Cardinal wide receiver is ready to do what it takes to help his team win a Super Bowl.

As Fox Sports Arizona reports, Fitzgerald still remembers the playoff run the Cardinals made a mere four seasons ago that ended in heartbreak to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the waning seconds of the game.

"It doesn't seem like such a distant memory," he said. "I never lose sight of what that felt like, what the journey was like, committing to a team that embarked on an incredible experience. I just want to recapture that."

Considering the disarray the Cardinals carried into the preseason, it would be expected to hear a bit more displeasure coming from Fitzgerald's corner. But the humble Pro Bowl receiver is known for his team-first attitude in this day and age of flashy NFL divas.

Still, the drive of the Super Bowl, the same drive of a lot of NFL players, is what keeps Fitzgerald playing the game. Fitzgerald is remarkably entering the prime of his life at the age of 29, but he is still aware how rare the actual chances of winning the Super Bowl are.

"Every time I put my cleats on, that championship is going to be my driving force, but when it's all said and done, I always say when I walk away or the game walks away from me, I'll make sure I've done everything I possibly could," he said. "That goes for what I do on the field and what I do off of it."

Until that happens, Fitzgerald has given his support to quarterback John Skelton in as few words as possible in his business-like manner.

"I'm just happy it's behind us and we don't have to answer the question every day," he said, specifically addressing the quarterback controversy. "Coach named John the starter. We're going to follow his lead. It can shift our focus to what's really important."

For more on the Arizona Cardinals, head over to Revenge of the Birds and join the conversation. To make the football season even more fun, why not give SB Nation's own Fantasy Football game, Pick 6 a try.

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Arizona Cardinals Sign ex-Arizona State Wide Receiver Gerell Robinson

Former Arizona Sun Devils wide receiver Gerell Robinson tweeted on Tuesday that he will be making a homecoming and signing with the Arizona Cardinals.

Back home like I never left.. Blessed for another opprotunity to put on in front of arizona #made4this

— Gerell Robinson (@G_Rob10) September 2, 2012

The 6'3, 227-pound Robinson signed with the Broncos after going undrafted in April. Robinson's numbers as a Sun Devil weren't much to bat an eye at until his senior year when he exploded for 77 reception for 1,397 yards and seven touchdowns.

However, he couldn't quite make a name for himself in the preseason, only catching four passes for 53 yards in four games, and was cut by the Broncos on the NFL's final roster cut deadline.

Robinson will most likely find a home on the Cardinals practice squad, but House of Sparky points out that given Arizona's situation at wide receiver, Robinson could very well play himself onto the active roster later in the season.

For more on the Arizona Cardinals, head over to Revenge of the Birds and join the conversation. To make the football season even more fun, why not give SB Nation's own Fantasy Football game, Pick 6 a try.

• 10 months ago
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Larry Fitzgerald May Feel The QB Controversy Is Over, But That Is Hardly The Case

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The Tough Part Of Being The New Guy, Even As A Veteran

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2012 NFL Preview: A Look At The NFC West [Video]

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Arizona Cardinals Officially Name Practice Squad

The Arizona Cardinals announced several moves with their roster, including the assembling of the eight-man practice squad that is allow under league rules. Some of these additions were already presumed, based on reports and Twitter feeds of the players.

The players that the Cardinals now have on their practice squad are:

• DT Ricky Lumpkin
• LB Colin Parker
• CB Larry Parker
• TE Steve Skelton
• WR Isaiah Williams
• OT Steven Baker
• LB Ricky Elmore
• WR Gerell Robinson

The final two players that were not already out there as being on the squad were receiver Isaiah Williams and cornerback Larry Parker.

Some will find it surprising that safety Blake Giseon did not make the practice squad, considering his play in the preseason and in training camp. However, he may have already found an NFL home elsewhere or the team might have felt that with five safeties on the roster there was just no more room.

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• 10 months ago
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Despite What Has Been Implied, Don't Expect Kevin Kolb To Play In 2012

• 10 months ago
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Arizona Cardinals Reportedly Work Out Offensive Lineman

Likely in response to the thumb injury that led to the placing of veteran offensive lineman Jeremy Bridges on injured reserve, ESPN insider Adam Schefter is reporting that the Arizona Cardinals have worked out another offensive lineman, veteran tackle Pat McQuistan.

Veteran OT Pat McQuistan tried out today for the OT-needy Cardinals.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 2, 2012

McQuistan was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the seventh round of the 2006 NFL Draft out of Weber State. He has been a reserve for most of his career. In six seasons, he has appeared in 66 games, starting eight -- all for the Miami Dolphins in 2010. He was a member of the New Orleans Saints in 2011.

He is 6-6, 317 pounds. He would likely not take over any starting position.

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• 10 months ago
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Arizona Cardinals Lose Offensive Lineman Jeremy Bridges For Season

The Arizona Cardinals, who actually suffered very few injuries in the preseason, have suffered another blow to their maligned offensive line. After losing left tackle Levi Brown for the season to a torn triceps, they have lost another veteran player. Reserve lineman Jeremy Bridges, who plays both guard and tackle, tweeted that he was placed on injured reserve for torn ligaments in his thumb.

#BIRDGANG I'm sad to report I got put on IR this season. I'll be making appearances! The Birds will fly!! #TeamBridges still #winning

— Jeremy Bridges (@bigslab73) September 3, 2012

Thanks to all for your concern and replies! Tore a ligament in my LT thumb, it requires surgery. So they IR'd me!!

— Jeremy Bridges (@bigslab73) September 3, 2012

On injured reserve, he will miss the entire 2012 season. The team could possibly use the new rule that would allow him to be placed on the new reserved/injured list that would allow a player to be reactivated during the season. However, it may be only one player and the team would rather save that for a player down the line that is a starter and would have a chance of coming back during the season.

This will free up a spot on the active roster. Look for the team to pick up another tackle in free agency as the other tackle they previously cut, D.J. Young, has already found a job with the Philadelphia Eagles.

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• 10 months ago
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Former Arizona Cardinals Find Their Way To Other NFL Teams

The Arizona Cardinals bid farewell to many players on Friday when they made their final cuts to get their roster down to the required 53 players. While these players are no longer a member of the Arizona Cardinals, at least three have found homes with other NFL teams.

Cornerback Crezdon Butler was claimed off waivers by the Washington Redskins to finish off their 53-man roster. Butler has the physical tools for the NFL, but was lost in the numbers game at his position in Arizona. The Cardinals claimed him off waivers last year after he was cut by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He never really got to show what he can do, as he was lost for the season with an ankle injury in his first game action.

Linebacker Clark Haggans was perhaps a surprise cut by the Cardinals. He found a home with the San Francisco 49ers.

Offensive tackle D.J. Young, who spent almost all of the 2011 season on the Arizona Cardinals practice squad, has found his way to the Philadelphia Eagles practice squad. He confirmed this via his own Twitter feed. The Eagles tried to sign him off the Cards' practice squad at the end of last season. The Cardinals countered by placing him on the active roster.

Undoubtedly there will be more former Cardinals to make it with other teams. These are just the first.

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• 10 months ago
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Former ASU Receiver Gerell Robinson Latest Addition To Arizona Cardinals

Local sports fans will get a double dose of good news. The Arizona Cardinals have added a former Arizona State Sun Devil to the team. Receiver Gerell Robinson, who was cut from the Denver Broncos after signing with them as an undrafted free agent, has tweeted that he is a member of the Arizona Cardinals.

@samalzahawi lol yea im blessed im headed to the cardinals

— Gerell Robinson (@G_Rob10) September 1, 2012

Back home like I never left.. Blessed for another opprotunity to put on in front of arizona #made4this

— Gerell Robinson (@G_Rob10) September 2, 2012

Robinson has NFL size -- 6-4 222 pounds. He has average speed, with a 40-time between 4.5-4.6 seconds. He isn't a burner at all, but is great at catching the ball in traffic. His last year at ASU, he has 77 catches for 1397 yards and seven touchdowns, including a team record 241 yards in the Vegas Bowl against Boise State.

It has not been confirmed whether he was signed to the active roster or the practice squad, but common sense would say that he is likely on the practice squad.

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• 10 months ago
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Arizona Cardinals Reportedly Add Offensive Tackle To Practice Squad

The Arizona Cardinals continue to assemble their eight-man practice squad now that they have their roster at 53 players. The third player that reportedly has been added to the squad is offensive tackle Steven Baker, as tweeted by NFL agent Mark Lillibridge.

OT Steven Baker, formerly of #colts, who had a secondary claim on him by #jets, has signed with #Cardinals PS.

— Marc Lillibridge (@NFL_Bridge) September 2, 2012

Baker was undrafted this year and spent the preseason with the Colts. He is 6-8, 310 pounds and played college ball at East Carolina State University.

Baker, if reports are correct, will join defensive tackle Ricky Lumpkin and outside linebacker Ricky Elmore on the practice squad. The signing of Baker could mean that the team is not going to bring back tackle D.J. Young, who spent most of the 2011 season on the team's practice squad and even started a game this preseason before being cut on Friday.

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• 10 months ago
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Former Arizona Wildcat Reportedly Joins Arizona Cardinals Practice Squad

The Arizona Cardinals, along with the rest of the NFL, were able to start forming their eight-man practice squads on Saturday. After bringing back defensive tackle Ricky Lumpkin, who was among final cuts on Friday and was on the team's practice squad in 2011, another defensive player was reportedly added to the mix.

According to tweet from Adam Wilson of the Baltimore Sun, the Cardinals have added former Arizona Wildcat Ricky Elmore to their practice squad.

Ricky Elmore joins Arizona Cardinals' practice squad

— Aaron Wilson (@RavensInsider) September 1, 2012

Elmore was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 2011 in the sixth round, the 197th player overall.

He did not make the active roster in 2011 and was with the San Diego Chargers this preseason. As a member of the Arizona Wildcats, he collected 25.5 sacks over three seasons.

Elmore is 6-4, 256 pounds. Arizona will try to develop him as an outside linebacker.

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• 10 months ago
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Defensive Tackle Ricky Lumpkin Rejoins Arizona Cardinals Practice Squad

Now that teams have their rosters at 53 players, on Saturday, they were able to begin forming their eight-man practice squads. The Arizona Cardinals have begun adding players, including one who returns to the team. Defensive tackle Ricky Lumpkin, who was part of final cuts on Friday, will join the Arizona practice squad, according to a tweet he sent out himself.

Still going to be with the #BIRDGANG another year. Excited get to keep working on my craft.

— Ricky Lumpkin (@RLump95) September 1, 2012

Lumpkin spent 2011 on the practice squad as well. Players with less than nine active games in their career may be on a team's practice squad and can do so for a maximum of three seasons.

Lumpkin is most known for his illegal hit on former Cardinals Matt Leinart in the preseason. He was fined $21,000 for the play. Since he is not on the active roster, he will not have to pay that fine.

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• 10 months ago
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Arizona Cardinals Add OLB Jamaal Westerman, Are Awarded Waiver Claim Over 49ers

After the trade of cornerback A.J. Jefferson, the Arizona Cardinals had an opening on their 53-man roster. To fill it, they placed a waiver claim on defensive end/outside linebacker Jamaal Westerman. According to Adam Schefter, they were awarded that claim.

Arizona and SF each put in a waiver claim for former Dolphins LB Jamaal Westerman, who was awarded to Cardinals.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 1, 2012

Arizona only had three OLBs on their roster -- starters Sam Acho and O'Brien Schofield, plus reserve Quentin Groves.

Clark Haggans, who was expected to be one of the backups, was released with final cuts.

Westerman is 6-3, 265 pounds. He played with the New York Jets for three seasons, starting three games in 2011. He logged 32 tackles and 3.5 sacks as a reserve.

He will play behind O'Brien Schofield and will also play on special teams.

The Cardinals' roster moves might not be done still, so stay tuned.

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• 10 months ago
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Arizona Cardinals Complete Jefferson Trade, Involves Draft Picks

It was previously reported that the Arizona Cardinals traded cornerback A.J. Jefferson to the Minnesota Vikings. Neither team had announced the move officially. On Saturday, the Cardinals did announce the move. Jefferson is headed to the Vikings in a transaction that involves the exchange of draft picks. Those picks were not disclosed.

The picks involved are also conditional and are to be exchanged in the 2013 draft.

Jefferson (6-1, 190) played in 16 games last season with the Cardinals and made seven starts. He had a career high 67 tackles (59 solos) with one interception. He originally signed with the team as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2010 out of Fresno State.

He came out of the 2011 preseason as one of the starting cornerbacks. He was replaced later on in the starting lineup by Richard Marshall but still saw significant time on the field, as in nickel packages he would take the CB2 spot and Marshall would move to safety.

The trade opened up a spot on Arizona's 53-man roster, allowing them to pick up a player on waivers.

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• 10 months ago
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Which Freshly Cut Players From The Arizona Cardinals Figure To Make The Practice Squad?

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NFL Cuts: Who Are The Surprise Cuts/Keepers For The Cardinals?

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Arizona Cardinals Trade CB AJ Jefferson To Vikings, According To Report

The Arizona Cardinals have dealt third-year cornerback A.J. Jefferson to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange for undisclosed draft picks, according to multiple reports. Jefferson, 24, appeared in all 16 games with the Cardinals last season, recording 66 tackles and intercepting one pass.

Here is the latest from training camp. The team had until 9 p.m. ET on Friday night to cut their roster down 53 players.

Cardinals trade CB AJ Jefferson to Vikings, according to NFL source. Compensation unknown but draft picks involved #AZCards

— Kent Somers (@kentsomers) September 1, 2012

Jefferson always had the potential to become a very good cornerback in the league, although he developed a tendency to get burnt down the field. This understandably drew the ire from his coaches, likely prompting the trade this evening.

For more on the Cardinals and all of their offseason moves, be sure to check out Revenge of the Birds and SB Nation Arizona.

• 10 months ago
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NFL Cuts: Arizona Cardinals Say Goodbye To Clark Haggans, Trim Roster To 53

The Arizona Cardinals severed ties with more than a dozen players, some which were a surprise, as they made moves to set their roster at 53 players as required by the NFL. It does not mean that this is the team that will take the field next Sunday, but they released 18 players, placed two on injured reserve and waived/injured a pair of players.

The following players were the ones released from the team:

• CB Crezdon Butler
• LB Antonio Coleman
• S Blake Gideon
• LB Clark Haggans
• G Russ Hochstein
• DT Ricky Lumpkin
• LB Colin Parker
• CB Larry Parker
• WR DeMarco Sampson
• TE Steve Skelton
• RB Alfonso Smith
• LB Quan Sturdivant
• DE Ronald Talley
• DE Everrette Thompson
• TE Martell Webb
• C Scott Wedige
• WR Isaiah Williams
• OT D.J. Young

They placed Richard Bartel on injured reserve for his shoulder he hurt on Thursday, running back Javarris James with a knee injury and waived/injured LB Brandon Williams and WR Stephen Williams.

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