Cardinals vs. Falcons: With Schofield out, Quentin Groves set for bigger role

The Arizona Cardinals' game against the Atlanta Falcons presents a big opportunity for Quentin Groves, as an injury to O'Brien Schofield creates an opening at outside linebacker. Originally drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the second-round of the 2008 NFL Draft, Groves signed with Atlanta prior to the start of the season.

Head coach Ken Wisinhunt indicated that the majority of Schofield's snaps would go to Groves:

"I think he has done a good job in what we have asked him to do and he contributed in a big area on special teams, which is what you have to do at that role...This week will be a little bit bigger for him because he will get more snaps and we will get a chance to see how he has adapted. To come in and learn this defense and play outside linebacker, that is what you work hard in the offseason to try to find guys who can do that, and he has done a good job of that so far."

Groves has 17 tackles and two sacks for the Cardinals this season. His most active period was the 2010 season, when he started 12 games for the Oakland Raiders, picking up 40 tackles, a safety and an interception.

Schofield had 26 tackles and four sacks through the first nine Cardinals games. His ankle injury was originally thought not to be serious, but further examination revealed it would take him out for the remainder of the season.

Other options for Atlanta at outside linebacker include Jamaal Westerman and rookie Zack Nash.