3 favorable matchups for the Cardinals vs. the Rams in Week 14
By Sion Fawkes
Arizona’s defensive backs vs. LA’s receivers
Despite Matthew Stafford’s awesome numbers, the Cardinals’ defensive backs have been stingy all season. Even against a receiving unit as tough as the Rams’, which boasts Cooper Kupp, Odell Beckham, and Tyler Higbee, among others.
Given the number of options Stafford has in the Rams’ receiving units, it would lead you to believe they would torch any defense. However, Stafford has cooled off in recent weeks, throwing five touchdown passes compared to five interceptions. And the Cardinals’ defensive backs have played well when one looks at some advanced statistics.
Cornerback Robert Alford has given up just an 81.2 quarterback rating when targeted. Byron Murphy has been even better, giving up just a 71.6 passer rating. Murphy is on the injury report as of Friday, but he has seen limited participation in practice this week.
Even at safety, Budda Baker has been phenomenal, with opposing quarterbacks posting just a 62.9 rating. And Jalen Thompson has also joined the party, with a 75.9 rating when targeted. Look for the Cardinals’ defensive backs to step up to the challenge often and make life difficult for the Rams’ receiving unit.