Cardinals Face Injury Crisis Ahead of Rams Showdown
The Arizona Cardinals head into their Week 14 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams grappling with a significant injury crisis. A total of nine players have been ruled out, with two more classified as questionable, adding to the challenges facing the team as they prepare for Sunday’s contest.
Injury Report: Key Players Missing
The Cardinals’ injury list is extensive. Among those officially ruled out after Friday’s practice are Trey Benson (knee), L.J. Collier (knee), Emari Demercado (ankle), Greg Dortch (chest), Marvin Harrison Jr. (heel), Christian Jones (knee), Max Melton (heel), Walter Nolen III (knee), and Dadrion Taylor-Demerson (ankle). Additionally, starting quarterback Kyler Murray has been sidelined for the remainder of the season, a significant blow to the team’s offensive strategy.
Compounding matters, offensive tackle Kelvin Beachum (groin) and wide receiver Xavier Weaver (hamstring) are both listed as questionable, further limiting the Cardinals’ options as they approach a crucial game.
Rams Enter the Game Relatively Healthy
In stark contrast, the Rams come into the game with a relatively clean bill of health. No players have been ruled out for Los Angeles, although cornerback Darious Williams is listed as doubtful due to a tibia injury. Both wide receiver Tutu Atwell (hamstring) and defensive tackle Poona Ford (calf) are also questionable, but the overall outlook for the Rams remains strong.
The Rams have successfully cleared several key players from their injury report, including Davante Adams, Braden Fiske, Alaric Jackson, Kamren Kinchens, Kyren Williams, and Byron Young, all of whom are set to take the field on Sunday.
Gannon Discusses the Rams’ Offensive Threat
Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon emphasized the challenges posed by a Rams team that has been playing some of the best football in the league. Reflecting on their recent performances, Gannon noted, “I think it starts with really the run game. They’ve got a good O-line and a really good scheme. (Rams Head Coach) Sean (McVay) has done a really good job of adapting this year and doing some different things that he hasn’t done in the past, using his guys in the right way. They’ve got good backs.”
Gannon also highlighted the dual threat presented by the Rams’ offense. “You get antsy to stop the run, and then he throws the ball over your head, and they score touchdowns,” he said. “That’s a recipe to win a lot of games, play good offense, and that’s what they’re doing. So big-time challenge.”
A significant focal point for the Cardinals’ defense will be Adams, who has been a standout performer this season with 14 touchdowns. Gannon remarked on Adams’ prowess, stating, “He’s scored more touchdowns inside of five yards than anybody this year, so obviously a really good player. They deploy him in a way that’s hard to put two players on him.”
Gannon’s analysis underscored the importance of awareness in defending against elite talents like Adams, indicating that the Cardinals must carefully strategize to contain his impact on the game.
As the Cardinals prepare for this key matchup, all eyes will be on how they adapt to their injury challenges and confront a formidable Rams squad.
