Cardinal rule: Defense keys road win over Giants
Game Recap: Arizona 24 – New York Giants 17
Known more for their offensive firepower than an overwhelming defense, the Cardinals flipped the script on Sunday night, bringing relentless pressure and forcing four turnovers in a season defining victory at the Meadowlands over the Giants.
Coming off a tough road loss last week in New Orleans, few expected a second straight defeat for New York, but the G-Men looked lost from the very beginning, especially on offense. QB Eli Manning had three interceptions and WR Mario Manningham dropped a sure touchdown pass late in the game, giving voice to critics that have called for his benching in favor of rookie WR Hakeem Nicks. Nicks scored for the fourth time in four games on the game’s craziest play, snatching a deflected pass in stride and racing 62 yards into the end zone to take a 14-7 lead.
The Cardinals switched fronts and formations with reckless abandon all night long, confusing New York’s offense and making it difficult for them to get into the rhythm they usually enjoy against lesser opponents.
“We feel like we’ve got one of the best defenses in the league. It’s tough for teams to move the ball on them, let alone score on them.” - Arizona WR Anquan Boldin
The normally high flying Cardinals offense didn’t move too far from the ground, but they were able to take advantage New York’s mistakes and the short field that went with them to put points on the board. RB Chris “Beanie” Wells scored from 13 yards out in the second quarter to tie the game at seven, but the real work was done in the second half, when Arizona’s defense locked down on the Giants, holding them to just three points.
Quick Hits:
- Cardinals shut critics up, defeat G-Men 24-17 - Raising Zona
- Cardinals uncage secondary to topple Giants – AZ Red Report
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