Week Four: Cardinals-Dolphins Winners/Losers
By Scott Allen
Sept. 30, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb (4) throws during the second half against the Miami Dolphins at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals beat the Dolphins 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-US PRESSWIRE
We know the Arizona Cardinals won 24-21 in overtime on Sunday over the Miami Dolphins. So, the team won to go 4-0 on the 2012 season. However, as the game breaks downs in different aspects, there are things and players that had a positive impact and there are areas in which improvement is needed.
Winner:
Cardinals WR Andre Roberts: His two touchdowns on Sunday were both impressive. He got open for a 46-yard score and also caught the tying touchdown pass with 22 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. He has clearly solidified himself as the number two receiver, for now. It was nice however to see the Cards try to incorporate the inevitable number two in Michael Floyd.
Loser(s):
The Cards offensive line. The pass protection really broke down for the first time this season. It was disappointing to see against a defense that only had three sacks all season coming in.
Winner:
Cardinals QB Kevin Kolb. Yes, even with the two interceptions, including the bone-headed one in the end zone in the fourth quarter that could have nailed this game in the coffin. He redeemed himself with the game-tying score and then helping pick up a huge first down on the second possession in overtime to set-up the game-winning field goal.
Loser:
Dolphins coaching. Hard to imagine what the thinking was in throwing a pass on second down late in the game. The Dolphins had a chance to salt the game away themselves. It did seem like at times, neither team wanted to win.
Winner(s):
Dolphins QB Ryan Tannehill. He’ll learn from his mistakes but he torched the Cards secondary time and time again. He found another winner in my book today in Dolphins WR Brian Hartline. The two may have found a connection that will lead to a lot of points in Miami not only this year but years to come.