August 17, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive back Tony Jefferson (36) celebrates with linebacker Kennt Rowe (44) and inside linebacker Daryl Washington (58) after intercepting a pass against Dallas Cowboys during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
The Arizona Cardinals only scored 12 points against the Dallas Cowboys, but there were tons of positives.
Only seven points were allowed, and the Cardinals forced interceptions easily. Tony Jefferson intercepted two passes, Jerraud Powers forced a fumble and intercepted a pass, and the defense was spectacular. The offense faltered in the red zone, but it gained yardage.
How did the team do? Here is a breakdown of the performance.
Brenton Johnson
The Arizona Cardinals Preseason game two (12-7) win against the Dallas Cowboys will be remembered by missed opportunities in the red zone and Cowboy turnovers. The Cardinals opportunistic defense was solid but did give up too many (yards) big plays. If it were not for six turnovers for the Cowboys, the complexion of the game probably would have been different.
The offense was marred with mixed results. Rashard Mendenhall looked impressive and the offensive line kept Carson Palmer’s jersey clean, giving him time in the pocket. However, they could not finish drives in the red zone.
We were able to see some chemistry develop between Palmer and Fitzgerald. Andre Roberts continues to impress as well. We also saw the potential of Patrick Peterson on the offensive (slot) side of the ball. Could he be in the mold of a Percy Harvin type? We may get to see very soon.
There were also some impressive showings from players trying to make the final 53. Players like wide receiver Kerry Taylor, with four reception and eighty-five yards receiving. Safety Tony Jefferson had a great performance as well, with two interceptions. One in which ended the game.
Other players that impressed were linebacker Kevin Minter, running back Andre Ellington and safety Tyrann Mathieu continues to impress.
Lucas Robbins
It’s always a good thing when the Arizona Cardinals beat the Dallas Cowboys, even if it is during pre-season. The biggest concern from the game was missed opportunities. The Cardinals defense forced six turnovers yet the Cardinals offense failed to put the ball in the end-zone. Although Jay Feely got in some great field goal work, TDs are always better than FGs. Shout out to Cardinals wide receiver and former Sun Devil Kerry Taylor who had four receptions for 85 yards.
Baily Deeter
Lots of players did well for the Cardinals, as Jefferson, Powers, Tyrann Mathieu and the defense dominated. Drew Stanton also did a nice job, although he was a bit inconsistent. Jaron Brown and Kerry Taylor benefited from Stanton’s play, as both put up great numbers.
Red zone offense is a concern, but there are lots of positives to take away. The Cardinals deserve a B+ for their performance Saturday.