Thursday, December 11th
8:35 pm ET @ Edward Jones Dome (NFLN)
The NFC West lead is is currently dangling by a thread as the Arizona Cardinals lead the Seattle Seahawks (9-4) by one game. Drew Stanton has led the squad to a 2-2 record since losing Carson Palmer for the season. Both of those losses came to Seattle and Atlanta. The would also go on to lose their leading rusher in Andre Ellington for the season. The defense has also seen its own drop off but still manages to rank #2 in INTs (17). Now, with the nature of this game and what’s at stake, Arizona knows very well that they must win one or maybe even two games to get into the playoffs. A loss and a Seattle win would knock Arizona into a wild card spot. Stanton will need to rely on his o-line against a very stingy St. Louis defense. A win would give them a very comfy cushion with 2 games left.
St. Louis is arguably the scariest team to face if you’re a playoff contender. Their 6-7 record can deceive you but this team has been fun to watch. The one thing they lack is a quarterback. Austin Davis ans Shaun Hill have been decent for the team but they need someone who can keep their defense clicking. Jared Cook and Kenny Britt have done well in leading the receiving corps but could use a much better QB. The real reason why St. Louis is scary is their defense. They have recorded two consecutive shutouts against Oakland and Washington. Despite the opponents, it is not easy to record a shutout, much less two. Although Arizona ranks #2 in INTs, St. Louis still ranks #12 (12 INTs). St, Luois will need a lot of help on offense in order to compete with the Arizona defense.
FINAL SCORE: Arizona knows how important this game is but playing in St. Louis, and the way that they are playing, the fans give a huge boost to this team. Should be a very good game and very close. Calling for the upset!
Cardinals 24-RAMS 27
Photo Credit: Rick Scuteri/AP