Recently, Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon went viral for a perceived uninspiring pep speech saying, “Understand I’m looking for killers.”
The Cardinals’ defense took notice because that unit acted out what the coach said he wanted, both positively and negatively.
Arizona’s defense amassed 67 yards in penalty on one drive, leading to a Washington Commanders touchdown in the first quarter.
The first of two helmet-to-helmet penalties occurred when Cardinals linebacker Kyzir White blasted Commanders quarterback Sam Howell after the QB stepped out of bounds. The hit also took out the down judge.
Howell went to the medical tent for evaluation. So did the official. With the official being evaluated, Howell was allowed time to get cleared and return to the game without missing a play.
Later in the drive, Cardinals safety Jalen Thompson got called for a personal foul after hitting Commanders wide receiver Jahan Dotson with a helmet-to-helmet hit. That tacked on another 15 yards.
Two plays later, cornerback Marco Wilson was flagged for a 37-yard pass interference penalty defending Washington’s star wideout Terry McLaurin. Eventually, Howell found a wide-open Brian Robinson in the end zone for a seven-yard touchdown.
Cardinals turned their aggression into positive plays
It wasn’t the start the Cardinals wanted. But the aggression was there. To Gannon’s credit, the Arizona defense forced two turnovers to stay close in the game — an interception off Howell and a fumble from running back Antonio Gibson.
Then in the second quarter, the Cardinals’ defense pressured Howell, who lost the football trying to get out of dodge. Arizona’s defensive end, Cameron Thomas, recovered the football for the touchdown.
Jonathan Gannon got laughed at by media and fans for his perplexing comments. Yet, after an impressive showing that included six sacks and three turnovers through three quarters, not many are laughing now.
The Arizona offense imploded late in the game, leading to the Commanders rallying to a 20-16 win. The penalties on the opening drive came back to haunt the Cardinals. Yet, one thing is certain, their defense is nasty and will keep them competitive even with an inept offense.
