The Arizona Cardinals are set to play their second preseason game of the year Thursday night at home against the Oakland Raiders. It is the last time the home fans will get to see their team live in a game that doesn’t count, as their final two preseason games are on the road.
The Cardinals won their preseason opener and there were things to like.
But what about their game against the Raiders? What are the things we want to see in the second preseason game?
More Kyler Murray
Kliff Kingsbury said Murray would play more than one series against the Raiders. Hopefully, that means multiple drives with many plays. Murray looked good against the Los Angeles Chargers in his first game action. Will he improve on that in his second game?
Points from the first-team offense
The first-team offense moved the ball some in their one drive against the Chargers but stalled after a penalty and a sack. With a new offensive scheme, this week we want to see the starters move down the field at least once for a touchdown or at least a field goal.
Ideally, they score points in every drive the starters are on the field.
Improved run defense
The defense was gashed by the Chargers for 179 rushing yards, which didn’t exactly get people excited about the defense. Yes, it is the preseason, but giving up that many yards after being the worst team in the league against the run a year ago was not a good look.
They don’t have to shut the Raiders down completely, but the starters should improve and show teams won’t be able to just move down the field at will by running the ball.
First live reps for Byron Murphy, Andy Isabella
Both second-round picks missed the preseason opener with injuries. We want to see them both make some plays against the Raiders. They need to show why they were so highly touted by the team.
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