Arizona Cardinals vs San Francisco 49ers: Preview, prediction

3 of 4

Oct 2, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals outside linebacker Markus Golden (44) attempts to tackle Los Angeles Rams quarterback Case Keenum (17) during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Rams won 17-13. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

Keys to victory, Defense/Special teams

Safety Tyvon Branch was placed on IR and Tharold Simon was promoted to the active roster in his place. With Branch’s absence, Tyrann Mathieu will return to his nickel back role and D.J. Swearinger will move up to safety.

Aside from the Buffalo game, the Cardinals defense has successfully stopped the run overall. The Cardinals will look to continue this success against Carlos Hyde and Shaun Draughn. 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert is also known to use legs and the linebaackers will need to prevent him from making big runs.

With all the injuries on both sides of the ball, the Cardinals waived injured punter Drew Butler. However, this doesn’t mean Ryan Quigley will be the new punter long term. Quigley will need a much better outing than last week as the field position will play a big role in this game.

I expect the offense to be very static with Stanton under center. With this in mind, kicker Chandler Catanzaro may end up being the Cardinals leading scorer.

Home/Cardinals News