Injuries Plague Cardinals Ahead of Week 14 Showdown with Rams
The Arizona Cardinals are facing a daunting challenge as they prepare for their Week 14 clash against the Los Angeles Rams. This matchup, taking place in Glendale, comes at a time when the Cardinals are grappling with a slew of injuries to key players.
Cardinals’ Injury Woes
As anticipated, the Cardinals will be without several significant contributors this week. Marvin Harrison Jr., Walter Nolen III, and Trey Benson are among the notable names sidelined for the game. The team’s final list of inactive players includes:
Max Melton
Marvin Harrison Jr.
Emari Demercado
Dadrion Taylor-Demerson
Evan Brown
Xavier Weaver
Walter Nolen III
Compounding their difficulties, the Cardinals recently placed Greg Dortch on injured reserve and made a series of roster moves. They signed linebacker Channing Tindall to the active roster from the practice squad and elevated wide receivers Jalen Brooks and Trent Sherfield Sr. from the practice squad. The Cardinals are particularly hard-hit, missing five of their top six wide receivers, which significantly hampers their offensive capabilities. Notably, there are no healthy scratches among their ranks this week.
Rams Enter Healthy
In stark contrast, the Los Angeles Rams head into this matchup with a full roster. Their inactive players include Jarquez Hunter, Derion Kendrick, Beaux Limmer, Desjuan Johnson, Ty Hamilton, and Stetson Bennett. The Rams did not make any practice squad elevations this week, but both Poona Ford and Kam Kinchens, who were listed as questionable, are active for the game.
Rivalry Resumes
This Week 14 meeting marks the first of two matchups this season, with the teams set to meet again in Week 18 at SoFi Stadium. The Rams have historically had the upper hand, winning three of their last four encounters against the Cardinals. Arizona head coach Jonathan Gannon has acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by the Rams, particularly praising their run game.
“It starts with really the run game. They’ve got a good O-line and a really good scheme,” Gannon remarked. “(Rams Head Coach) Sean (McVay) has done a really good job of adapting this year and using his guys in the right way. They’ve got good backs. When you focus on stopping the run, they can strike quickly with the pass.”
The Rams’ defense has been among the most effective this season, allowing just 17.5 points per game, which ranks second in the NFL. With a record of 9-3, the Rams are currently tied for the best record in the NFC.
Cardinals Focus on Team Spirit
Despite their struggles and being eliminated from postseason contention with a 3-9 record, Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett remains optimistic. He underscores the importance of unity and effort, even in challenging times.
“I think my message to the guys is let’s do it for each other. Show how much you love the player next to you. Love coming to work and love playing for the coach that’s coaching you,” Brissett shared. “That’s our games right there. That’s the true test of not only character but of a man. When times are tough, what are you going to do?”
Kickoff for this highly anticipated NFC West clash is set for 2:25 PM MST.
