Panthers-Cardinals: Jake Delhomme, Number of the "Least"

Note: The quotes in this article are fictional.

After a dismal three-interception, no-touchdown performance in a 20-9 loss to the Bills, it appears Jake Delhomme's days as Carolina's starter are numbered.

Delhomme has struggled all year, and his downfall seemed to begin with last year's 33-13 playoff loss to the Cardinals, a game in which Delhomme threw five picks. The Panthers travel to Arizona probably seeking mercy more so than vengeance.

"It's safe to say Jake is not the most popular player on the team right now," says John Fox. "Heck, I fear for his safety as much as I do for my job. Only in Carolina is a 'roughing the passer' penalty called on the offense ."

"Statistically, Jake's having the worst season of his career. His passer rating is a lowly 56.5. I'm not sure, but that's got to be near the bottom, if not the worst, in the league. It's not 66.6, which is the 'number of the beast.' It's much worse. It's the 'number of the least.'"

The Cards have won two-straight, and are beginning to resemble the team that nearly won the Super Bowl last year. Arizona is even 2-0 on the East Coast after failing to win there at all in last year's regular season.

"People may be surprised to hear this," says Kurt Warner, "but our rush defense is ranked No. 1 in the NFL. So Bibles aren't the only thing getting 'thumped' around here.

"It's that kind of commitment to success that keeps me around. That, and the words of the 'good book.' And by 'good book,' I don't mean an offensive playbook featuring three talented wide receivers and very little running. Anyway, you can poke fun at my religious conviction all you want, but I'm not phased. Don't hate the 'prayer,' hate the game."

Anquan Boldin is nursing an ankle injury, so look for the No. 3 wide receiver to play a larger role in the offense, a situation Matt Leinart refers to as "Breast'" enhancement.

Arizona wins, 34-13.

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