Arizona Cardinals’ Campbell confident defense can stop the run
Dec 23, 2012, 1:49 AM | Updated: 1:50 am
The Arizona Cardinals defense has been the continual bright spot in an overall dismal season in 2012.
But while Ray Horton’s squad has earned accolades week after week for their impressive pass defense that ranks among the best in the league, they have also received criticism for their struggles containing the run this year.
Cards’ defensive end Calais Campbell told Arizona Sports 620’s Doug & Wolf Show Friday the team’s defense against the run has indeed been a mixed bag, but he feels if the unit can stay focused they are bound to have success.
“It’s been kind of hit or miss,” Campbell said. “Some games we play very well against the run and some games we let teams get going on us. A lot of it is the games where people get a little frustrated and we’re trying to press and too many guys are trying to do more than just our job.”
Horton’s pass defense has been so good teams have figured out their best chance to beat them is to run the ball early and often. Campbell expects to see the Chicago Bears do just that on Sunday at University of Phoenix Stadium.
“I think [the Bears] are going to run a lot more,” Campbell stated. “I think the mentality is run the ball down our throats and then try to take it up over the top with Brandon Marshall.”
Chicago boasts a very balanced offensive attack, including a strong back in Matt Forte, who is expected to see his fair share of carries.
