After every Arizona Cardinals game we’ll examine the
box score and
provide you with instant analysis. So it’s time to go
Inside the Box for
August 27, 2011: Chargers 34, Cardinals 31

The Good:

Kevin Kolb showed on Saturday why the Cardinals offered him a serious contract. The Cards’ new starting quarterback completed 11 of his attempted 20 passes for 205 yards and one touchdown. The touchdown was a sight for football-less eyes, as Larry Fitzgerald caught a bomb from Kolb and scored on the 80-yard play.

Kolb’s partner in crime, Fitz, caught three passes for 108 yards, including the 80-yard pass play from Kolb for the touchdown.

Beanie Wells was impressive. He was given the ball 10 times and ran for a total of 6.3 yards, but no touchdowns.

Rookie cornerback Patrick Peterson returned his first interception for a touchdown as an NFL player.

The Bad:

The Cardinals were up for the entire game, but the Chargers had the last laugh. With four seconds left, Chargers backup quarterback Billy Volek threw to the outside and completed a pass to Bryan Walters who slipped into the corner of the end zone. The 14-yard reception closed out a 90-yard drive. The Cardinals defense needs some more work, especially when it comes to allowing game-winning drives. 2008 Superbowl, anyone?

The Ugly:

Cornerback Greg Toler sprained his ACL and was forced to leave the game, but the Cardinals avoided other major injuries.

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