Arizona Cardinals Lead the NFL in Fumble Recoveries

Sept. 23, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick (7) fumbles while being tackled by Arizona Cardinals outside linebacker Sam Acho (94) in the first half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Stewart-US PRESSWIRE

In four games, the Arizona Cardinals are leading the league in fumble recoveries, with six.  It’s another sign of the team’s tough, gritty defense, and their ability to create turnovers.  Even more so than interceptions, fumble recoveries are an indication that your defensive players are hitting and tackling defenders well, with determination and force.  That certainly defines this Cardinals defensive unit.

The current stat hearkens back to the 2010 season — not a particularly memorable year for the Cardinals, except for the fact that the Cardinals turned six of their fumble recoveries into returns for touchdowns, which is an NFL record.

I’ll be happy if this year’s Cardinals team breaks the record  for most fumbles recovered in a season (58 by the 1963 Minnesota Vikings — in a 14-game season!).  That would be a real long shot!