Packers-cardinals matchup features Murray vs. Rodgers
GLENDALE, Ariz. — Arizona’s Kyler Murray has become one of the NFL’S most exciting quarterbacks, scurrying around in the pocket to avoid would-be tacklers and often finishing with spectacular throws downfield.
Come to think of it, that sounds a lot like a description of Green Bay’s Aaron Rodgers.
It’s no surprise then that Murray — who is 14 years younger than Rodgers — has modeled portions of his game after Rodgers. Now the two early-season MVP candidates will meet for the first time when the Cardinals host the Packers on Thursday night.
“He’s probably my favorite quarterback to watch,” Murray said of the Green Bay passer. “His swag, the way he plays the game, what he’s done in his career. I admire his game a lot. First time playing against him, first time being able to meet him.
“It’s pretty cool, I’m looking forward to it.”
The Cardinals are 7-0 for the first time since 1974 and seek a franchise record for wins to start a season. Green Bay (6-1) stumbled in its opener but since then has won six straight. Rodgers is rolling in that stretch, throwing for 15 touchdowns and one interception.
Rodgers had plenty of complimentary words for Murray. He also acknowledged that even though it’s just Week 8, playoff-type vibes are in the air.
“We’re aware of that,” Rodgers said. “A lot of times when you’re not playing a division opponent it comes down to the tiebreakers like this. There’s still a lot of football and a lot that can happen throughout the season with momentum and the way teams play, but this is an important one.”
Green Bay’s COVID-19 issues
The Packers will be playing without receivers Davante Adams and Allen Lazard, who went on the reserve/ COVID-19 list this week. Adams is tied for second in the NFL in catches (52) and is third in yards receiving (744).
The virus also has impacted Green Bay’s coaching staff. Defensive coordinator Joe Barry tested positive this week and won’t be available.
Arizona can relate. The Cardinals are just getting over a virus outbreak on their roster. Coach Kliff Kingsbury, quarterbacks coach Cam Turner, edge rusher Chandler Jones and defensive linemen Zach Allen and Corey Peters have missed time over the past two weeks. Everyone but Peters has returned.
The Cardinals also will be missing defensive end J.J. Watt (shoulder).
It’ll be the first game he’s missed this season.
One-two punch
Kingsbury is known for his air raidstyle, but the Cardinals’ run game ranks fifth in the NFL.
Most of the work has been done by the stellar duo of Chase Edmonds and James Conner, whose contrasting styles have been a good fit. Edmonds is more of a speedster and a receiving threat. Conner’s bulldog style has become the team’s go-to option in short-yardage situations.
Edmonds is averaging nearly 6 yards per carry and has 27 catches. Conner has 89 carries for 336 yards and six touchdowns.