It was 2008 and just like this week the Arizona Cardinals were preparing for a preseason game against the Oakland Raiders. This time the game is at University of Phoenix Stadium instead of "The Blackhole".
A highly touted, potential franchise quarterback, was trying to hold off the second string quarterback to earn the starting job. His name was current Raider back up QB Matt Leinart and the second string QB was Kurt Warner. Leinart bombed going 4-12 for 24 yards with three interceptions and no touchdowns. For me, it was the moment that signaled the end of the Leinart era (can we call it an era?).
Could we witness a similar situation with Kevin Kolb when the Cards and Raiders meet Friday night at 7:00 PM? Kolb is scheduled to start and John Skelton will follow. Through two games in the preseason the former Philadelphia Eagles second round draft pick is 2-9 for 25 yards and one interception. Skelton has been better, but not much going 7-12 with 67 yards and an INT.
Ken Whisenhunt made it known this week during practice quarterback isn't the only position he is upset with and the starters will play until they show progress.
The offensive and defensive line starters were manhandled in the trenches during the Cards 27-17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, which dropped them to 0-2 in the preseason.
If Arizona's defense doesn't improve it could get ugly.
Raiders running back Darren McFadden had three touches, two runs and one pass, totaling 38 yards in Oakland's first preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys. The silver and black fell 3-0 to Dallas.
The explosive, versatile back is expected to get a longer look against the Cards as he tries to bounce back from an injury plagued season. If Ray Horton's defense isn't sharp, winning battles at the line of scrimmage and solid with their tackling, McFadden will run wild.
After the game Friday night, the Cardinals will continue their preseason Thursday when they hit the road to take on the Tennessee Titans. The game will be nationally televised on ESPN at 5:00 PM.
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