Arizona Cardinals Defense Impresses Despite Loss

The Arizona Cardinals defense made the Washington Commanders work to seal an expected victory in Week 1.

There were plenty of positives to take away from the Arizona Cardinals despite falling to the Washington Commanders in a tight 20-16 contest. The biggest of those positives was the game new defensive coordinator Nick Rallis called coupled with the collective grit and determination various players showed on his side of the ball.

Rallis and head coach Jonathan Gannon clearly built a gameplay centered around creating pressure and making life uncomfortable for second year quarterback Sam Howell. It seemingly was an effective approach considering Howell was sacked six times, lost a fumble, threw an interception, and averaged less than seven yards per attempt. 

The Commanders also struggled to move the ball on the ground, averaging a mere three yards per carry. Washington's running back room isn't one of the best in the league, but the Cardinals defensive line has frequently been pegged as the worst in football.

Players such as Jonathan Ledbetter and L.J. Collier exceeded expectations in the trenches. 

Kyzir White and K'Von Wallace both provided extremely solid support on the second level. White's physically imposing play was especially conspicuous.

The edge rushers were also on fire to begin the season. Dennis Gardeck collected two sacks and was active in the backfield all game. Zaven Collins recovered a fumble, defended a pass, and intercepted another. Victor Dimukeje was credited for a sack and a forced fumble. Cam Thomas scored a touchdown on a scoop-and-score. 

There's no denying the edge rushers were incredibly impressive in today's effort.

First pick of the season goes to 2️⃣5️⃣@ZavenCollins x #BirdGang pic.twitter.com/sxbySCT9wg

— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) September 10, 2023

It may be cliché, but the Cardinals truly did have an impressive showing at all three levels of its defense.

Victor Dimukeje forced fumble, Cardinals recover! #BirdGang pic.twitter.com/xXsZjzEx2J

— Pro Football Culture (@proftblculture) September 10, 2023

Marco Wilson did an admirable job shadowing star Washington receiver Terry McLaurin, including an eye-opening pass breakup that could've been intercepted. Jalen Thompson was disruptive in coverage as well, and Budda Baker provided his trademark infectious energy that Cardinals fans have adored for years. 

It's easy to find silver linings and overreact after one week, but one thing is for sure: the new culture coach Gannon has allegedly brought in has appeared to officially been ushered in.