Arizona Cardinals guard Paul Fanaika had a lot to be excited about this week, coming off his first career NFL start and signed a contract extension. However, he has a huge challenge ahead of him as he’s set to block the Detroit Lions’ fearsome pair of defensive tackles in Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley.

While Fanaika said he’s always working on improving his game, he realizes this week is a special opportunity to push himself to get ready for two very talented players.

“What makes them special to me is their ability to make plays, whether it’s using their athleticism or their strength to get off blocks to make plays,” Fanaika said of the pair. “Just being disruptive, disrupting the pocket and affecting the quarterback’s throwing rhythm.”

Fairley, who’s in his third season, and Suh, who’s in his fourth, have been prolific in their young careers, combining for 30 sacks already. Fanaika doesn’t think they’re impossible to block though.

“Going to have to be close to a perfect game, but they’re blockable guys,” Fanaika said. “They’re not going to be easy but it can be done.”

Fanaika also said this will be a benchmark matchup for him, adding, “These guys are the best d-tackles so it’s definitely exciting, especially getting a challenge like this early in the year. It’s definitely exciting, very exciting for me.”

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