NFL Preseason 2010: Arizona Cardinals Season Preview

This idea originated from ESPN's Mike & Mike. I will now preview the Arizona Cardinals

1.) Is the fifth year the charm for QB Matt Lienart?

Wow, the 2006 quarterback class isn't what many thought it would be. Matt Lienart has yet to start a full season, which is the first step. In his playing time, he has been very inaccurate and doen't have the arm strength that Kurt Warner does. Maybe he has matured while watching the game from the sidelines in the past few seasons.

2.) Can second year RB Beanie Wells become a true workhorse in the backfield?

The Cardinals will want to run the ball more this year, with an unproven QB at the helm. You would have to believe Beanie Wells will split time with Tim Hightower. Hightower is the more experienced runner. Hightower is also a weapon out of the backfield with 63 receptions a year ago. Wells needs to rush for 1,000 yards this season as this will be his best opportunity yet. Special teams ace, LaRod Stephens-Howling, will see the ball in short yardage and goal line situations. 

3.) Is it too late for Early Doucet to fill the shoes of Anquan Boldin?

Doucet will be the number three guy behind Larry Fitzgerald and Steve Breaston. He had only 17 receptions compared to Boldin's 84. Doucet has a very similar body type to Boldin and came on late in the season. He has also been very injury prone in his first two seasons and needs to stay healthy too produce like Anquan Boldin did.  

4.) How much will Arizona's defense miss Karlos Dansby and Antrel Rolle?

Former TCU player Dayrl Washington is expected to beat out Paris Lenon for Dansby's old position. Washington was one of 12 semifinalists for the Butkus Award. The award is named after Bears great Dick Butkus, for the top linebacker in college football.

Kerry Rhodes was once making pro bowl teams and even being named the 29th best NFL player by Peter King. Rhodes then fell out of favor with Rex Ryan after being benched hence the trade to the dessert.

Washington may take some time to develop, so the Cardinals might suffer before he gets better (which he will.) Rhodes should step in right away and redeem himself in his new city.

5.) Record?

9-7, second in the NFC West.