2012 Cardinals Combined QB Statistics:
Passing Yards: 3,383 Touchdowns: 11 Interceptions:11 Completion Percentage: 55.4
The Arizona Cardinals to this day have been in utter disarray since the departure of former Super Bowl MVP Kurt Warner and in my opinion things could continue to get worse, even after the recent off season acquisition of Carson Palmer. Last year Cardinals QBs, were arguably worst in the league, as four different starters graced the field during the season and Arizona only tallied 5 victories. In the end it was a statistical debacle and although the numbers do not tell the full story they do tell quite a bit about how bad last year really was. As Cardinals management passed up in my opinion a no brainer in Matt Barkley (I always thought Arizona could be a great place to develop the former cerebrale all American) the team obviously has other ideas about how things are going to unfold as the roster remains loaded with QBs that fail to strike fear into the eyes of the opposition. With Palmer entering the end of his career, the Cardinals only hope at this point is that he can rely on his protection up front and the long ball to Pro Bowl WR Larry Fitzgerald. If Palmer fails or for some reason gets hurt here is my take on Palmer and remaining stable of QBs in the Valley of the Sun.
QB Analysis:
Carson Palmer: Once an elite player on the Bengals Carson Palmer time and time again has been a disappointment since his departure, as his career in Oakland was extremely mediocre. During his tenure in the Bay Area through 23 games as the starter he went 8-15 and during his complete time on the field amassed 35 TDs to a alarming 20 interceptions. Although, he has the physical characteristics of a massive gunslinger and does possess a great deep ball his quickness and elusiveness are not his strong points; marks a huge downfall in his game. Unless Arizona can improve drastically on the offensive line, I don’t see a great 2013 here.
Drew Stanton: With 7 seasons in the league Drew Stanton’s progression has been slow as playtime has not been in his favor. During his career he has posted 5 TD passes to 9 INTs and has a menial completion percentage of only 55.6%. Although, his career up until this point has not been progressive Stanton may have a valid chance to play in Arizona as his size and natural arm strength could get him a long look as a starter. With a chance you never know what could happen.
Ryan Lindley: With 0 TDs this past season in six different appearances, the former SDSU great had a miserable time at the helm while completing 52.1 % of his passes and boasting a QBR rating of only 9.8. As the Cardinals will most likely keep him around due to his size and upside once he gets things going, with his debacle last season his opportunities could be few and far between.
Brian Hoyer: In one 2012 start he had 1 TD versus 1 INT for 330 yards. In seven years in the league he has only been active for 13 games. After spending the majority of his career backing up Tom Brady he will join fellow Michigan State standout Drew Stanton to compete for a chance at a backup roll.
QB’s To Start Since the Departure of Kurt Warner:
Derek Anderson
Max Hall
John Skelton
Kevin Kolb
Ryan Lindley
Brian Hoyer
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