Cardinals’ Leinart pushed by veteran
by Kent Somers on Aug. 18, 2008, under Sports
Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner is sacked for a loss by Chiefs lineman Turk McBride during Saturday's preseason game.
FLAGSTAFF – There is always the temptation during the NFL’s preseason to read too much into practices and games that don’t count.
Outside of proving that Flagstaff is still cool in the summer and Kansas City has great barbecue, the Cardinals’ preseason provided few absolutes.
Still, there are points gleaned from the first two preseason games. Hunches have been formed, opinions have sprouted and yellow cones placed on a couple of potential trouble areas.
Here is what we think we’ve learned:
• The quarterback competition appears closer than many thought. Matt Leinart remains the starter, but Kurt Warner, who played well in Kansas City on Saturday night in the 27-17 win over the Chiefs, is pushing him.
• The most positive development on offense has been the play of rookie running back Tim Hightower, who has shown surprising speed and explosiveness.
• The depth on the offensive line remains frightening, especially at tackle.
• Much has been made of the improved depth on the front seven on defense, and there are pass rushers nearly everywhere you look: at outside linebacker with Bertrand Berry, Chike Okeafor, Travis LaBoy, Clark Haggans and Karlos Dansby. At strong safety with Adrian Wilson. At end with Darnell Dockett and Antonio Smith.
• The Cardinals have yielded long drives, continuing a troubling trend from last season. This appears, however, to be the most talented defense the team has had in years.
• Head coach Ken Whisenhunt has professed his faith in Neil Rackers, even though the kicker hasn’t come close to replicating his 2005 season.
• The return teams were excellent in Kansas City, with returners Steve Breaston and J.J. Arrington breaking nice runs.
Favre sharp in start
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – Brett Favre was having fun again.
His tearful retirement and tumultuous offseason were tucked away in his memory. Favre was back where he’s always been happiest: in the huddle with thousands of cheers providing a perfect soundtrack.
“It’s like starting all over again,” the New York Jets’ new quarterback said. “I had some feelings that I haven’t felt in 17 years.”
After throwing a touchdown pass to cap his second series against Washington in his Jets debut Saturday night, Favre urged coach Eric Mangini to let him play some more.
“He said, ‘Let me think about it,’ ” Favre said. “As he turned away, he turned back and said, ‘I thought about it.’ ”
Sorry, Brett. You’ll have to wait until next Saturday against the defending Super Bowl champion Giants.
Favre was solid in his brief Jets debut after a week of cramming to learn his new playbook.
Just 10 days after being acquired from Green Bay, Favre finished 5 of 6 for 48 yards and threw a 4-yard touchdown pass to Dustin Keller in a 13-10 loss to the Redskins.
Polamalu nearing return
LATROBE, Pa. – Pittsburgh Steelers Pro Bowl safety Troy Polamalu could return to practice Tuesday.
Coach Mike Tomlin indicated after weekend practices that the team is ready to remove Polamalu from the physically unable to perform list when the team breaks camp Monday at Saint Vincent College and heads back to the Pittsburgh facility.
The Associated Press
