Arizona Cardinals show coach what they’re made of
By Jim Koch
Arizona Cardinals’ head coach Bruce Arians was shown what his team is made of in their victory over the San Francisco 49ers
Arizona Cardinals’ head coach Bruce Arians had concerns about his squad going into Sunday’s matchup with the San Francisco 49ers. But after the Cards rallied to win in overtime, his worries were alleviated. As far as Arians was concerned, the 18-15 triumph was proof that his team has “a little somethin’ in us”, as he proclaimed during his postgame locker room speech.
What Arizona was able to accomplish at the end of the overtime period was actually quite remarkable. With their backs against the wall, they were able put together a long drive which resulted in the game-winning touchdown. In less than two minutes, no less.
Quarterback Carson Palmer’s performance during that final drive deserved high praise. The tough-as-nails veteran continues to prove his detractors wrong. Palmer’s willingness to hang in the pocket and take hit after hit is amazing, especially considering the fact that he’s 37 years old.
With his back against the wall, the Cardinals’ fifth-year starter was able to complete six of his seven pass attempts in the extra stanza. The battle between the division rivals ended with Palmer finding Larry Fitzgerald in the end zone with under a minute to go. Just another clutch reception by the future Hall of Famer.
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The signal-caller and his favorite wideout weren’t the only heroes on that final march. Sure-handed running back Andre Ellington hauled in three balls for 30 yards. Wide receiver Jaron Brown capped off his impressive afternoon with receptions of 17 and 11 yards, getting the Cards within striking distance.
Before Arizona’s offense put the cherry on top of the victory, the club’s defense had held down the fort. “Bend but don’t break” was the theme for the day, as the unit had allowed just field goals. Five to be exact, including the one in overtime that had San Francisco on the cusp of their first win of 2017.
All in all, the Cardinals’ beating of a division foe was a group effort. The special teams also deserve a mention, with Phil Dawson’s four field goals obviously huge. It was a nice rebound for the 42-year old kicker who had already shanked three field goals in this young season.
Sunday was an emotional day for the Arizona players. A loss would’ve hurt in a big way, but Palmer and company made sure that didn’t happen. And their head coach couldn’t have been more proud.