Cardinals’ RB Rotation Takes Surprising Turn on Thursday Night Football
The Arizona Cardinals entered Thursday Night Football with a noticeably altered running back lineup following the season-ending injury to James Conner. While it was anticipated that the depth chart would shift, few could have predicted the specific arrangement that unfolded.
Unexpected Absence of Demercado
One of the more surprising developments was the absence of Emari Demercado from the active running back rotation. Although he was listed as active for the game, Demercado’s role was significantly diminished. Fans had expected to see him contribute as a potential passing-down back, providing relief behind the primary ball carrier. Instead, he found himself sidelined in terms of meaningful touches.
Benson and Carter Step Up
With Demercado relegated to a limited role, it was Trey Benson who stepped into the spotlight. The rookie showcased his skills with a solid workload, delivering the type of performance that had been anticipated. However, it was Michael Carter, a former draft pick of the New York Jets, who emerged as the unexpected second option. Carter’s presence in the backfield added a layer of experience and versatility, allowing the Cardinals to adjust their strategy on the fly.
A Shift in Offensive Strategy
Throughout much of the game, the Cardinals appeared to stray from the conventional use of a traditional running back. Demercado’s anticipated role as a passing-down back was largely overlooked, as the team opted to utilize other players for those duties. Notably, wide receiver Greg Dortch was deployed in the backfield on several occasions, illustrating the Cardinals’ creative approach to their offensive game plan.
For Demercado, who had been poised for a breakout performance, this turn of events was undeniably disappointing. He had been hoping to carve out a significant role in the absence of Conner, but the game’s dynamics did not favor his involvement.
Looking Ahead
As the Cardinals continue to navigate their running back situation, the focus will be on how they adapt to these changes moving forward. With Benson and Carter stepping up during this critical juncture, the team must find a way to balance their offensive strategies while keeping all players engaged.
