Arizona Cardinals must capitalize on three key matchups heading into Carolina
By Sion Fawkes
Cardinals pass rush versus Teddy Bridgewater
The Cardinals pass rush is more than just a one-man-show these days with outside linebacker Chandler Jones recording just one of the team’s 11 sacks. It is clear the defense has built its identity chasing quarterbacks.
Just about everyone wearing cardinal red is getting to the quarterback these days, including Devon Kennard, Corey Peters, Jordan Phillips, and Haason Reddick having recorded two thus far in this young season. Jones, Zach Allen, and Angelo Blackson are each tied with one sack apiece.
The pass rush remained one of the few bright spots we saw from the Cardinals last week, ravaging Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford for 4 sacks and 38 sack yards. Of course, everyone shoulders blame after a tough loss. But the pass rush continued to shine in Week Three.
And they should take full advantage this week given the number of sacks, hurries, and knockdowns Panthers quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has taken this season. Don’t be surprised if the Cardinals find themselves in the Panthers backfield throughout the game this Sunday.
And with a decimated defensive backfield, the Cardinals pass rush must continue to add the pressure they’ve placed on opposing quarterbacks since Week One. If they do, they will give their offense plenty of opportunities to score and bounce back from last week’s upset.