Cardinals John Skelton Gets Another Chance to Impress Against Vikings
By Scott Allen
Oct. 14, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback John Skelton (19) warms up prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Stewart-US PRESSWIRE
John Skelton, it’s your turn. The Arizona Cardinals starter-turned backup has turned back to starter once again thanks to a rib injury to Cards quarterback Kevin Kolb. Kolb is expected to be out at least six weeks. So, Skelton, who came in to the game against the Buffalo Bills last week and didn’t perform so well going 2-10 and an interception in the 19-16 ovetime loss, will get a chance to make his first start since week one when he went out with his own injury. Probably a great chance Skelton will be running for his life most of the day against Jared Allen and the Minnesota Vikings defense.
The Cards have not won in Minnesota since 1977. The game in Minnesota last season was the one game the Cards never had a chance in. It was over before the beer was open and the breakfast order hit the table. The Cards offensive line has not improved much since then. They’ve given up 22 sacks in the last three games. That number undoubtedly is going up today.
If the Cards are to win today, they must establish a running game. That’s a tough task in Minnesota. Minnesota is good against the run. Most likely this will turn into a game where Skelton is forced into throwing 40 times. It’s just the way it’s likely to be. We can only hope the game stays close.
In the end, it’s two 4-2 teams that could be, could be, headed in different directions. The Cards can’t let their losses to injury be an excuse. The Cards defense is good enough to keep them in games. It will be a matter if Skelton can put the Cards over the hump in those close games. Right now the confidence factor is not high. I hope that changes before the end of the day. Go Cards!