Cardinals-Saints Both Start Off Fast, Tied 7-7 End of First

Sep 22, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA;Arizona Cardinals running back Alfonso Smith (29) celebrates with running back Andre Ellington (38) after scoring a touchdown during the first quarter of a game against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The Arizona Cardinals marched down the field in the opening drive to get points in the first quarter for the first time this season.  They grabbed a 7-0 lead on the New Orleans Saints after quarterback Carson Palmer went 4-5 and a couple of nice grabs by receiver Michael Floyd.  The Cards also had their best run of the season, a 21-yard scamper by running back Alfonso Smith.  Smith scored the touchdown to open the scoring festivities.

The Cards defense didn’t hold up their end of the bargain on defense.  They allowed the Saints to march right down the field on their first possession.  It culminated in a touchdown pass from Saints quarterback Drew Brees to recently re-signed receiver Robert Meachem.  It was 7-7 before many were probably even settled in their seats.

On the second Cards offensive drive, tackle Levi Brown allowed Palmer to get sacked.  They ran a nice screen to running back Andre Ellington to get 17 yards right after that to give them a third and three.  Unfortunately running back Stepfan Taylor only went two yards and not three to the marker to continue the drive on his third down reception.

The Saints are currently marching down the field into the second quarter.  They need to do a much better job of covering the tight ends.  Easier said than done with Jimmy Graham on the other side of the ball.

Injury wise, Cardinals linebacker Lorenzo Alexander was hurt towards the end of the quarter and his status is currently unknown.