Four Down Territory: Cards are a restaurant
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Print | Originally published: Nov 28, 2011 - 9:44 am
I'll be honest…after that dish the Cardinals served up on Sunday, I feel like I had a pretty good meal. I have only one complaint. Granted, it's a pretty significant complaint, but it's only one. And, let's be frank, the Cardinals did just beat the St. Louis Rams, the restaurant equivalent of serving a hamburger; you have to work pretty hard to screw that up.
Still, as we head into four down territory, it seems that was one of the most complete games the Cardinals have played in some time.
First Down
Beanie Wells, who set a franchise record with 228 yards, was otherworldly at times. At times, I've been a Beanie- basher, never questioning his toughness but certainly questioning his fragility and availability. Beanie is answering those questions and shutting his critics up. Twice you held your breath, once when Beanie headed to the bench and then when his entire team came onto the field to check on him, an injury that prompted many on twitter to predict his season was over. 53 yards later it was clear rumors of his demise were greatly exaggerated.
Second Down
Maybe Patrick Peterson….The Cornerback is still under construction. Patrick Peterson….The Punt Returner is a finished product. A game-changer in the mold of Devin Hester. And the effort to get him the ball in the Wildcat offense is applauded from here. He needs the ball in his hands as often as possible.
Third Down The defense was smothering. Sam Acho, Daryl Washington, Paris Lenon all had terrific games. They routinely got stops on third down and never allowed the Rams to sustain long drives. If the Cardinals take nothing else from the 2011 season, take the fact they finally have a legit defensive coordinator in Ray Horton.
Fourth Down
The one complaint on this otherwise complete day of football…..the sketchy play of John Skelton. He lacked accuracy and frankly I am wondering if his confidence is shaken and stirred. I am all for playing Skelton as long as he gives you a reason to. For some, his 3-1 record when he starts is that reason. But with Kevin Kolb's return getting closer by the practice and the way Skelton has played the last couple of weeks, I'm starting to run out of reasons.
