Arizona Cardinals: Ranking The Defense

Sep 21, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals free safety Tony Jefferson (22) celebrates after sacking San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) in the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

The Arizona Cardinals defense, decimated by injuries and departures, has played tremendously over the first three weeks of the season.  They have played about as good as you could expect or ask of them to this point.  They are currently ranked 7th after week three.

The Cards are giving up 316.3 yards per game so far this season.  They have given up 45 points, which is an average of 15 points per game.  After the losses of Karlos Dansby, Daryl Washington, John Abraham, and Darnell Dockett it would have been easy to have a built-in excuse.

The Cards are 4th against the run, giving up 71.7 yards per game.  Against the pass they are ranked 19th.  With Patrick Peterson having his worst game ever against the New York Giants and still bringing safety Tyrann Mathieu up to speed, the Cards should be happy with where they stand.

Conerback Tony Jefferson has played great.  He had a sack against the San Francisco 49ers.  Peterson rebounded against the Niners as well.  Linebacker Larry Foote has been a nice addition in the middle.  It goes back to next man up.

Week five at the Denver Broncos will provide a major test.  They will have to contend with Peyton Manning.  Manning is currently ranked sixth in the NFL in passing.