Arizona Cardinals fall to Minnesota Vikings 20-9

The Arizona Cardinals had a lot more fight in them on Saturday but came up short on the scoreboard

The starters for the Arizona Cardinals played almost the entire first half.  There was certainly a lot more fight in the team on Saturday against the Minnesota Vikings.

Starting quarterback Kyler Murray had his best outing, a by-product of getting more playing time.  He went 14-21 for 137-yards.  He had no touchdowns or interceptions.

Running back David Johnson looked his best.  He appears ready for the start of the regular season.

On defense, linebacker Terrell Suggs looked good as did linebackers Chandler Jones, Brooks Reed, and Pete Robertson.  Outside one long 85-yard run by Vikings running back Dalvin Cook, it was a solid effort by a defense that has not looked good the past couple of weeks.

In the end it was touchdowns vs. field goals that was the difference on the scoreboard.  That will need to be shored up, as will penalties.  Something needs to be done in stopping some ridiculous false start calls being made against the Cardinals offense.

Now the Cardinals get ready for the final preseason game against the Denver Broncos on Thursday night in Denver.  Most of the starters, if not all, will sit.  We’ve seen the last of the starters until September 8th at home against the Detroit Lions in the regular season opener.

Saturday’s effort certainly will give Cardinals coaches a lot to talk about in who makes the final 53-man roster.  There had to be some performances that stood out and may have swayed some bubble decisions, such as those in the receiver room.

Receiver Damiere Byrd had a great day.  Pharoh Cooper did have one really good catch late in the game but Byrd showed his value on offense and special teams.

This week as stated, is the Broncos game on Thursday.  Then cut down deadline to put together the 53-man roster has a 1:00 pm Arizona deadline next Saturday August 31st.