Cardinals on offense
They shouldn’t be surprised by what they see. Like the Cardinals, the Eagles run a 3-4 base defense but only occasionally are in such a conventional front. They will use a variety of looks and bring pressure from different places. The Cardinals’ offensive line should be able to handle it. They have had the same five starters in every game, so there should be no confusion. The Cardinals ran the ball efficiently last week, but the passing game remains their strength. Quarterback Carson Palmer has handled the blitz well. He has more check-down options than a year ago, because tackles Jared Veldheer and Bobby Massie haven’t needed much help from tight ends and backs. Massie, in particular, will face a challenge today from outside linebacker Connor Barwin, who has six sacks in the past three games. Edge: Cardinals.
Eagles on offense
They like to play fast and are averaging 68 plays a game. That’s a little low, due to their seven returns for touchdowns. (The Cardinals are averaging 63.) The Cardinals didn’t have problems with the Eagles’ offensive pace a year ago, and several opponents have used the no-huddle against them this year. Their biggest challenge will be trying to stop the Eagles with a depleted defensive line. They might be without end Calais Campbell (knee) for a third consecutive week, and he’s the best run defender among defensive linemen. Last year against the Cardinals, the Eagles used offensive sets that included at least two tight ends because they liked their matchups against linebackers and safeties. It will be interesting to see how the Cardinals match up if that’s the strategy this year. If the Cardinals go to their nickel, bringing in safety Deone Bucannon, the Eagles will challenge them with the run game. Edge: Cardinals.
Special teams
This group is a big reason the Eagles are 5-1. They rank first in kickoff and punt returns, having returned one of each for a touchdown. Darren Sproles, who returns punts, is not only quick but he’s strong. An arm tackle won’t bring him down. Chris Polk has returned a kick for a touchdown. The Cardinals’ punt coverage has been solid. The Eagles cover kicks and punts fairly well, too. Like the Cardinals, the Eagles have a rookie kicker who has been excellent. Cody Parkey has made 12 of 13 field-goal tries, including two from 51 yards. Edge: Eagles.