Arizona Cardinals now in game preparation mode

GLENDALE, AZ - AUGUST 17: Miles Austin
GLENDALE, AZ - AUGUST 17: Miles Austin

The Arizona Cardinals had their last open practice on Saturday before their game on Thursday

The Arizona Cardinals had their final open training camp practice prior to their first preseason game.  The Cardinals open the NFL preseason against the Dallas Cowboys at the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio.

Originally the Cardinals were going to hold an open practice on Monday at University of Phoenix Stadium from 2:00 to 4:30.  However they have now closed the practice to the public.

The team is off on Sunday after their Red-White Scrimmage on Saturday at the stadium.  The team will then have its closed practice on Monday before traveling to Ohio for the game, scheduled for 5:00 p.m. on Thursday night on NBC.

The Cardinals are going to sit a number of veterans on Thursday night.  Quarterback Carson Palmer and receiver Larry Fitzgerald will not play.

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There have also been a number of injuries over the past few days.  Some of those injured are in doubt to make the field on Thursday night.  Linebacker Karlos Dansby and cornerback Justin Bethel missed the scrimmage on Thursday and their availability on Thursday is still unknown.

The Cardinals will start Drew Stanton at quarterback.  We will likely see Blaine Gabbert and Trevor Knight behind center as well at some point.

The extra game in the preseason schedule allows the coaching staff to get a good look at some of the younger players.  Quite frankly there is no reason to put any starter in danger of getting injured.  Some will play however.

The next Cardinals practice open to the public will be on Tuesday August 8th at UOP Stadium. They will hold open practices that week on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday in preparation for their second preseason game against the Oakland Raiders at home on Saturday August 12th.

Schedule