Watch: How the 2018 Cardinals won their first preseason game
Aug 11, 2018, 11:27 PM | Updated: 11:28 pm
Arizona Cardinals tight end Bryce Williams (80) scores a touchdown as Los Angeles Chargers linebacker D'Juan Hines (59) pursues during the second half of a preseason NFL football game, Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
(AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
Arizona Cardinals fans can finally rejoice: Football is back.
Granted, it’s preseason football, but fans still showed up Saturday night to host the Los Angeles Chargers.
After missing 15 games last season, running back David Johnson returned with two solid runs for 28 total yards before coach Steve Wilks sat him for the night.
That. Burst.
Good to have you back, @DavidJohnson31. #LACvsAZ pic.twitter.com/T8MHzuuMH8
— NFL (@NFL) August 12, 2018
Johnson’s backup, Chase Edmonds, came in and scored on an impressive run breaking multiple tackles at the goal line. He finished with five carries for 11 yards and the Cardinals only touchdown of the first half.
Second effort.
Third effort.
Fourth effort.
Touchdown.A+++ for effort, @ChaseEdmonds22. #LACvsAZ pic.twitter.com/hVrcpNY4EI
— NFL (@NFL) August 12, 2018
Hometown rookie Christian Kirk had a special moment in his debut, returning a punt for 38 yards before tripping and falling trying to fake out the defending punter on a potential touchdown.
In case you missed @ChristianDavon2's first career touch…
😱😱😱 #LACvsAZ pic.twitter.com/MgrYKwzI0f
— NFL (@NFL) August 12, 2018
Another rookie, Josh Rosen, also made his preseason debut. He threw for 41 yards on an efficient six completions on 13 passes. The 10th overall pick in the NFL Draft grabbed low snaps and faced pressure, as protection was inconsistent.
.@Josh3Rosen's first career throw?
🎯🎯🎯 #LACvsAZ pic.twitter.com/JQba9arVXp
— NFL (@NFL) August 12, 2018
Rosen showed his ability to be mobile and move out of the pocket to avoid getting sacked.
That @josh3rosen kid miiiiight be a keeper.
Watch the throw. 👀💪 #LACvsAZ pic.twitter.com/zCyZgSTchN
— NFL (@NFL) August 12, 2018
Linebacker Jeremy Cash scored on a fumble recovery in the second half. It was the only score for the Cardinals until the third quarter. Cash was later carted off the field due to a knee injury.
.@jaycash_16 scoops. @jaycash_16 SCORES!@AZCardinals can take this one to the bank. #LACvsAZ pic.twitter.com/1CW0LEZodp
— NFL (@NFL) August 12, 2018
Cornerback Bené Benwikere tipped a pass that A.J. Howard intercepted and returned for seven yards.
Together we can do more.@TUoffTOz with the tip. @aj25howard with the pick! pic.twitter.com/5ONBuBXHV9
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) August 12, 2018
Cap Capi lead the defense in making plays, finishing with three sacks and a force fumble.
#CAPSZN pic.twitter.com/ajfw57hNmb
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) August 12, 2018
Fourth-string quarterback Charles Kandoff was the only Cardinal with a touchdown pass, on a nice 14-yard throw to tight end Bryce Williams.
Notable @Princeton alumni: Woodrow Wilson, James Madison, @AZCardinals reserve QB Charles Kanoff. @IvyLeague represent! #LACvsAZ pic.twitter.com/NhmbDRfBGH
— NFL (@NFL) August 12, 2018
The Cardinals won the preseason opener 24-17. Next game will be against the New Orleans Saints on Aug. 17.
