Defense, Running Game Lead Way For Cardinals Victory

SB Nation’s Revenge of the Birds has the positives and negatives from Sunday night’s huge victory for the Cardinals. The bad: passing game, which struggled against a Giants’ secondary that was scorched in Week 6 by the Saints. The Good: Defense and Beanie Wells:

Defense: The Cardinals defense brought many looks throughout the game, often confusing Eli Manning, and forcing turnovers. It seemed they blitzed on just about every play, and the results were successful. Late in the game, safety Antrel Rolle picked off Manning, and ended any hopes of a New York comeback. Alan Branch also showed up in the game, stuffing the run at times, and registering two sacks. The only negative on the defense was the fluke touchdown catch that Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie tipped to wide receiver Hakeem Nicks. Other then that, the only touchdown drive came on good field position for the Giants, after a Kurt Warner interception.

Beanie Wells: Other then a fumble that bounced out of bounds, Beanie was on top of his game against a good New York defense. He averaged 4.8 yards per carry, and even show-cased his famous stiff arm. Beanie was the difference on offense, as the Cardinals passing attacked was silenced for the most part. The Cardinals will need to rely on Wells throughout the season to bring the rushing attack they have lacked.