After a resounding 31-17 win over the San Francisco 49ers without many of their star players, the Arizona Cardinals declared they are indeed the best team in the NFL. Arizona now boasts a league-best 5-0 road record, 3-0 division record, and 4-1 conference record.
On Sunday they will host their next opponent, the Carolina Panthers, a team who has been their nemesis over the past several years.
Dating back to 2014, the Panthers have won five straight matchups over the Cardinals, including two elimination games in the playoffs. Over their past three meetings, Carolina also has had three different starting quarterbacks, and this Sunday will be no different.
Panthers starting quarterback, Sam Darnold, was placed on injured reserve after suffering a fractured scapula. Carolina brought back Cam Newton on Thursday but is not expected to play. Instead, it will be fifth-year pro P.J. Walker, making only his second career start.
For Arizona, it is unknown whether they will have some of their key contributors. Quarterback Kyler Murray and receiver DeAndre Hopkins will be game-day decisions. Guards Justin Pugh and Max Garcia have missed practice all week.
Regardless of who plays, there are still some keys for the Cardinals to achieve their ninth win this season.
Listen to the latest from Cards Wire’s Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify.
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