Aug. 30, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver (11) Larry Fitzgerald is greeted by teammates during player introductions prior to the game against the Denver Broncos during a preseason game at University of Phoenix Stadium. (Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)
It’s that time of the week again. For the final preseason game of 2013, the Denver Broncos host the Arizona Cardinals in a game that will mostly feature the second and third string from both teams.
To get you ready for the game, I asked Raising Zona editor Scott Allen a few questions about the Cards. Raising Zona is Fansided’s Cardinals site. Scott told me about the team’s biggest camp battle and gave me some projections on Carson Palmer and Larry Fitzgerald.
Let’s go Inside the Villain’s Venue with Raising Zone.
1. Tell us about the team’s biggest camp battle and what we should keep an eye on Thursday night.
The WR battle has been very interesting. There are basically four guys fighting for two spots at the #4 and #5 WR slots. Keep an eye on Charles Hawkins and Kerry Taylor. The CB position is loaded and it will all depend on how many coach Bruce Arians wants to keep on the roster. A guy like Antonie Cason could find himself on the outside looking in when the final roster is set.
2. Many could make the case that preseason game No. 4 is never that exciting since the starters don’t play. Why don’t you tell us why we should take Larry Fitzgerald in our fantasy drafts this year.
Well, I didn’t take him. It is hard to argue for Fitz when it comes to fantasy. Last year was a disaster. It should be much better this year with Carson Palmer throwing the ball to him. That being said, this team has show it still struggles in the red zone. If you are in a pass per reception league, then I’d say take him. If not, he’s probably a third receiver at best. Fantasy value aside, he’s still awesome and can make grabs many can’t.
3. Carson Palmer. Does he inject life into the Cardinals this season?
Yes, without a doubt. He immediately makes the quarterback position relevant again. Certainly he’s the best the Cards have had since Kurt Warner. He will move the ball, which is more than I can say about any of the four guys to give it a shot last season. He’ll have his share of picks but he has an arm which is more times than not accurate.
4. Give us a season prediction for the Cardinals in the NFC West.
Well, with the Niners and Seahawks still in the division, I still think the Niners are the best team from top to bottom. The Seahawks could end up beating themselves but are very talented. I also would not count St. Louis out. They went 4-1-1 in the division last season. I will say third in the division at 8-8. I give them a shot at 9-7 since the tougher games are at home this season but I still say even at 9-7, unfortunately they probably finish third unless they can beat Seattle once or twice.
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