The Arizona Cardinals are set to take on the Oakland Raiders in their second preseason game of the year. As preseason games tend to matter more for individual evaluation, let’s take a look at the Cardinals players to focus on in the game.
CB Byron Murphy
Murphy gets his preseason debut, having missed the opener with a foot injury. As he is going to be thrust into the playing rotation in Week 1 once Patrick Peterson is suspended, it will be important to see how he looks. He should get plenty of playing time, probably primarily in the slot.
WR Andy Isabella
Like Murphy, Isabella is in his debut. He missed the opener with a knee injury and has fallen a little behind the other receivers. He needs to show the quickness and explosiveness he did all spring and early in training camp.
DL Zach Allen
Yes, another draft pick is a player to watch. He is now thrust into the starting lineup after Darius Philon was released. Pay attention to how he looks with the starters and how he handles the combo blocks he is likely to see. Motor isn’t going to be a problem, but will he know where he should be?
CB Chris Jones
Jones has emerged as a favorite to make the roster. He has flashed in the offseason and in camp, and he made plays against the Chargers in the preseason opener. Now it is time to see if he can follow that up and basically lock up a roster spot.
WR Trent Sherfield
He was big at receiver and big on special teams in the opener. He potentially could solidify a spot in the starting lineup if he has another big game.
RB Wes Hills
The undrafted rookie looked good last week and has a chance to shine again with extended playing time. More plays could put him in the lead for the final running back spot on the roster.
K Zane Gonzalez
He hit a 55-yard field goal last week and, aside from one practice missing three field goals, has stood out in the offseason. However, the lack of competition is a concern, so another solid showing will assuage any concerns about whether or not he is fit to be the unquestioned kicker on the team.
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