Arizona Cardinals: Three Things We Learned Against Panthers
By Scott Allen
Oct 6, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals players Alfonso Smith (29) and Andre Ellington (38) celebrate with running back Rashard Mendenhall (28) after Mendenhall scores a touchdown during the third quarter against the Carolina Panthers at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Every week we learn something new from the Arizona Cardinals. Some things we already knew but there is always a learning to be had and shared. Yesterday was no different in the 22-6 victory over the Carolina Panthers.
The first thing we learned about the Arizona Cardinals is they can’t live without linebacker Daryl Washington. I think we may have already known this but when you compare the defense overall yesterday versus the first four weeks it was clear they need him, especially amid the injuries the Cards have suffered on defense. He had two sacks and an interception.
The second thing we learned about the Arizona Cardinals is the offense moves better when they run more. I know head coach Bruce Arians likes to air things out but I think the second half of yesterday’s showed us all that a ball-controlled offense and when they mix it up they open up the passing game, which gives quarterback Carson Palmer more time to get the ball to his receivers and make more than one read.
The third thing we learned about the Arizona Cardinals is no matter how pretty or ugly a game may or may not look is that it is all about wins. I think many fans and media sometimes forget that fact. I don’t care that Palmer threw three interceptions. I mean, I care, but the Cards won, so who cares? Yes, he can’t play like that against the Niners and Seahawks and expect to win but I’m only worried about this weeks game. He won. That’s all that matters.