Arizona Cardinals keys to victory in week seven

Contain DK Metcalf

Byron Murphy Jr. had his best game as a pro against the Cowboys and Budda Baker was all over the field, contributing to both the sack and turnover category. Overall, the Cardinals defensive backfield held the Cowboys elite receiving unit all game long until garbage time commenced.

This week, the Cards find themselves in a similar spot, facing Tyler Lockett and the emerging receiving threat in DK Metcalf. Metcalf has become a stud and arguably one of the best receivers in the game in 2020, averaging 22.5 yards per catch on 22 grabs to go with 5 touchdown receptions.

Patrick Peterson is slated to go one on one with Metcalf. Yet Peterson’s play over the first six games has been spotty at best. If Peterson can’t stop the emerging receiver from making plays over the top, someone needs to step up and provide help.

It could be Dre Kirkpatrick, who was limited in practice on Friday and is listed as questionable for Sunday. If the pass rush proves effective, then it will allow Budda Baker to provide help if Metcalf threatens to display his deep threat ability.

Expect Russell Wilson to target his number one receiver early and often in Sunday night’s matchup. And if the Cardinals expect to win this one, they must find a way to force Wilson to look elsewhere to keep Metcalf from working his magic. Especially late in the game.