Cardinals Cover 2

Ep. 757 - And now the work begins. Rookies arrived on Thursday. They practiced on Friday. Minicamp is underway for the 12-member draft class, three undrafted free agents and one tryout player – welcome former Maryland quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa. So, how did everyone look in their first on-field work in the NFL? Good question. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck discuss what they saw; and to be honest, it wasn’t much; practice – the portion that was opened to the media – was more of a walk-through. Still, Marvin Harrison Jr. looked good, rocking his No. 18 uniform, and Darius Robinson looked every bit of 6-5, 285. Plus, Kyler Murray and several of his teammates are in Oklahoma, bonding over playoff basketball, Sooners baseball and Murray’s on-campus statue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reading about and listening to Darius Robinson, it's very clear the man loves the game of football. The second of the Cardinals’ two first-round draft picks, Robinson and the rest of the 2024 draft class arrive this week and they will be on the field on Friday for the start of rookie minicamp. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss where Robinson will play, or at least where he will initially line up along the defensive line. They then hear from Robinson, who joined Grialou and Paul Calvisi following his introductory press conference. Plus, news on what numbers some of these rookies like Robinson and Marvin Harrison Jr., will be wearing and the first roster addition post-draft is a special teams standout who adds depth at linebacker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 755 - Expectations are high for Marvin Harrison Jr., but not any higher than the expectations he has for himself. As he told Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi, when you have the name ‘Harrison Jr.’ on the back of your uniform, expectations will always be high. Hear the full interview with the Cardinals’ first-round draft pick as he joined the guys following his introductory press conference. Harrison Jr. and the rest of the 12-player draft class will be on the field later this week for rookie minicamp. And Harrison Jr. won’t be the only new wide receiver in action for the first time. The Cardinals selected Tejhaun Palmer out of Alabama-Birmingham in the sixth round and added Colorado’s Xavier Weaver as an undrafted free agent; a pair of intriguing prospects who will be given every opportunity to earn a spot in what is a crowded wide receiver room.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 754 - After hearing from both the GM and the head coach, it’s now time to hear from the coordinators. Drew Petzing and Nick Rallis, the offensive and defensive coordinators, respectively, addressed the media over the past two days. Their thoughts on not only the 12 draft picks but also the players added in free agency. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck discuss what stood out; from Rallis’ excitement about cornerback Elijah Jones, linebacker Mack Wilson and the veteran leadership in defensive linemen Justin Jones and Bilal Nichols to Petzing looking forward to seeing wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., running back Trey Benson and tight end Tip Reiman on the field to really get a sense of what they can do. Also, some Zaven Collins talk; his fifth-year option was not exercised.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 753 - With apologies to the Masters, post-draft grades are “a tradition unlike any other.” Which team did well? Which team didn’t? Who might be a sleeper pick? Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman react to what the experts are saying about GM Monti Ossenfort’s second draft class. Spoiler alert: Monti did very well. The 12 new players won’t be on the field for another week - rookie minicamp begins May 10 - so right now everything is a projection. In fact, Zach projects Darius Robinson to begin his pro career as an edge rusher out of the outside linebacker room not the defensive line room. Interesting. Other draft prospects highlighted on the show included offensive lineman Christian Jones (Can he be the team’s swing tackle?) and tight end Tip Reiman (Zach shared a funny moment from Reiman’s conference call with reporters).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 752 - Five picks on Saturday. An NFL-high 12 picks over the three days of the 2024 NFL Draft. GM Monti Ossenfort did not mess around. The 12 picks, by the way, were split evenly between offense and defense. So, what do we think? Craig Grialou is joined once again by both Dani Sureck and Paul Calvisi to discuss Day 3 as well as the draft in general. This much is clear, cornerback was prioritized; or so it seemed. One was selected on each day, with Jaden Davis out of Miami hearing his name called with the Cardinals’ final pick, 226th overall in the seventh round. Other positions of note addressed on Saturday were safety (Texas Tech’s Dadrion Taylor-Emerson), edge rusher (Clemson’ Xavier Thomas), offensive tackle (Texas’ Christian Jones) and wide receiver (UAB’s Tejhaun Palmer).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 751 - Five picks including four in the third round. GM Monti Ossenfort was a busy man on Friday. Oh, and he made a pair of trades as well. Craig Grialou is joined by both Dani Sureck and Paul Calvisi – that’s right they go Cover 3 to discuss Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft. Round two got started with a trade down before the selection of Rutgers cornerback Max Melton, a player who does not lack in the confidence department. Then round three saw four selections: Florida State running back Trey Benson, Illinois offensive lineman Isaiah Adams, Adams’ teammate at Illinois in tight end Tip Reiman, and finally Boston College cornerback Elijah Jones. So, all total, the Cardinals double up at defensive back plus add three to the offensive side of the ball. Well done, Monti.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 750 - Two draft picks in the first round netted the Cardinals two players who fill positions of need: wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. and defensive lineman Darius Robinson. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck are back to discuss day one of the 2024 NFL Draft. They begin with the selection of Robinson – and yes, he hails from Dani’s alma mater, the University of Missouri – who can play both inside and outside along the d-line. His 8.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss were both team highs last season. Also on the show, comments from both GM Monti Ossenfort and head coach Jonathan Gannon about MHJ as told to Dani right outside the draft room mere minutes after the pick; plus some thoughts on the first round as a whole.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 749 - After much discussion and speculation, the Cardinals stayed put and selected Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick. And in the end, it’s not that big of a surprise. Harrison was ranked by many as, not only the No. 1 wideout, but the No. 1 non-quarterback position player in the draft. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck - who went with her gut and predicted GM Monti Ossenfort would do exactly what happened - react mere minutes after commissioner Roger Goodell made the announcement. A finalist for the Heisman Trophy and the winner of the Biletnikoff Award (nation’s top receiver), Harrison immediately becomes WR1 for Kyler Murray and the offense, filling a need on that side of the ball.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 748 - One day away. The finish line, otherwise known as the 2024 NFL Draft, is in sight. Again, the Cardinals have 11 total picks, the most of any team. Six of those picks are in the first 90 with two in the first round. At least that’s where things stand as of Wednesday. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck are ready for whatever is to come over the next three days. Stick and pick? Trade down? Trade down and then move back up the board? In addition to one last lookahead, the two revisit a pair of conversations they had during the NFL Scouting Combine with ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller - why he believes the Cardinals control the draft - and NFL Network draft analyst Lance Zierlein - what he expects from GM Monti Ossenfort.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 747 - Of course, if a quarterback is selected fourth overall, then that means GM Monti Ossenfort has traded the pick. To which team? And for what? All great questions. And questions no one has the answers to. That hasn’t stopped the speculation, however. With the draft now just three days away, Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi dive into what is being written and said about the decisions Ossenfort may or may not make. And not just with the No. 4 pick. The Cardinals have - to date - 11 total picks, including six in the first 90 and two in the first round. It’s why NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah recently told reporters “this is a ‘set your franchise up’ situation” in which Ossenfort finds himself in this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 746 - One week away. Only seven days until the 2024 NFL Draft. The Cardinals - at the moment - have 11 picks, including six in the first 90 and two in the first round. So, what will Monti Ossenfort do? Stick and pick? Trade down? Trade down and then trade back up, like he did a year ago? Well, during Thursday’s pre-draft presser, Monti was - to no one’s surprise - not very forthcoming with his plans. Of course, that didn’t stop Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck from discussing, and even dissecting, what he had to say to the assembled media. This much is clear: the Cardinals are in position to help set themselves up for not only this season but several seasons ahead based on their draft capital; so long as there are more hits than misses with their picks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 745 - Edge. And cornerback. Those would appear to be the positions of most need on defense; at least in the opinion of both Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman. The annual draft primer series - a position-by-position look at the Cardinals’ draft needs - continues this week on azcardinals.com. (Check the archives for a discussion on the offense.) While outside linebacker was not addressed in free agency, cornerback was with the signing of veteran Sean Murphy-Bunting. But, as the saying goes, teams can never have enough cornerbacks. Also, what’s the latest with the Mock Draft Tracker? More are showing a projected trade down from No. 4. Plus, Zach previews his story on a couple of Cardinals teammates participating in the NFL-USO Tour in Poland.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 744 - Players arrived back at the Dignity Health Arizona Cardinals Training Center on Monday. (Though many had been regulars since the season ended.) Welcome to the start of the offseason strength and conditioning program. It’s called Phase One. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck describe what that means; in other words, what players can and cannot do. Speaking of players, Kyzir White - how’s his rehab going - and Trey McBride, who was very excited to be back in the building, spoke with reporters. What did they have to say about the offseason, the new additions made to the roster, and having a healthy Kyler Murray? Plus, next week’s draft may be one of the more important ones, in terms of building for the future, in recent memory.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 743 - If wide receiver is the biggest need on offense, then outside linebacker/edge rusher is the biggest need on defense. At least that’s how Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi see it heading into the draft. (Cornerback is a close second.) Last season, the Cardinals ranked near the bottom in sacks plus had among the higher numbers in both opponent quarterback rating and opponent completion percentage. So, how do the Cardinals address the position? Good question. The latest Mel Kiper Jr. mock draft has one scenario, one in which the Cardinals stick-and-pick and select Marvin Harrison Jr. What happens, though, if there is a trade down? What might be the price to move off the fourth overall pick and is there a team willing, and more importantly able, to pay such a cost?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 742 - After a quick debrief on the solar eclipse - or the lack thereof in Arizona - Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman dive into the draft, focusing on the offensive side of the line of scrimmage. The annual draft primer series - a position-by-position look at the Cardinals’ draft needs - begins this week on azcardinals.com. No question wide receiver is the biggest need. The offensive line also is high on the need list. There are only three players: Paris Johnson Jr., Jonah Williams, and Jon Gaines who are signed beyond 2024. What about quarterback? Running back? Tight end? How might Monti Ossenfort address those positions, especially knowing he has - at least right now - 11 total picks in his collection? Time will tell.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 741 - It is the Cardinals’ biggest need, especially on offense. Wide receiver. And specifically, a true No. 1 receiver, or at worst, a receiver who can be paired with Michael Wilson. The wide receiver talk is getting louder because of, not only the need, but where the Cardinals select, which prospects were reportedly in town for visits, and the blockbuster trade between the Bills and Texans. Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi discuss how the Cardinals might address wide receiver, whether that’s early or late in the first round. Also, might we see a repeat performance out of Monti Ossenfort in terms of a trade down and then a move back up? Last year’s draft room video resurfaced on social media this week. Why?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 740 - It’s been a bit quiet on the free-agent front. Yes, the Cardinals are paying attention to those players still on the market - heck, they may even have an interest in signing one, two, or more of them - but, for the moment, their focus has shifted to the draft, which is less than four weeks away. Regardless of if it’s free agency or the draft, there are needs that must be addressed. Edge rusher may be the biggest. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck discuss how the Cardinals may want to strengthen the position, including Year 2 improvement from both Zaven Collins and BJ Ojulari. Plus, when it comes to the top three wide receivers in this year’s draft class, are our expectations for their projected success too high?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 739 - Fans are guaranteed to see at least two kickoffs every game. And last season, kickoffs were an afterthought. That’s about to change with the league approving new kickoff rules for 2024. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss what it’s going to look like and, more importantly, how the Cardinals will likely benefit from the new approach; and maybe why they made DeeJay Dallas an early signing in free agency. Also, the guys go over some of the other news and notes from the Annual League Meeting; what the latest mock drafts are saying about the Cardinals and the fourth overall pick; plus Desmond Ridder addressed reporters this week, what did he say and how does he fit within his new team’s quarterback room?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 738 - No team is in better position for the 2024 NFL Draft than the Arizona Cardinals. Or, more specifically, no *one person* as Broncos head coach Sean Payton said on Monday from the Annual League Meeting in Orlando. With the fourth overall pick, the Cardinals are the talk of the league. Darren Urban heard all the talk. From Orlando, he joins Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi to discuss what it may take for Monti Ossenfort to part with the team’s first first-round selection. Can a team make Ossenfort an offer he can’t refuse? Plus, Grialou and Calvisi revisit an earlier conversation concerning a former Cardinals draft pick. Why are they revisiting it? Well, because the player’s name has once again resurfaced in the rumor mill.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 737 - Do you love ball? And do you put team first? That’s how Jonathan Gannon defines the price of admission to be an Arizona Cardinal. And, yes, being a good football player is a must. All nine players – to date – signed in free agency paid the price of admission. Gannon and Monti Ossenfort met the media on Wednesday to discuss the moves made thus far. What did they say? Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck go over some of the highlights; the focus on defense, specifically defensive line; don’t ask – though it was asked – where Jonah Williams and Paris Johnson will line up; Desmond Ridder’s experience played a big factor in his acquisition; fielding trade calls for the No. 4 overall pick; plus “the brutal” decision Ossenfort made to release D.J. Humphries.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 736 - Back after a week away, Craig Grialou enlists the help of Paul Calvisi to go over everything that happened at the start of the new league year. And there was a lot. Seven players re-signed, seven players signed, one player was acquired and there were a handful of good-byes. The discussion began with GM Monti Ossenfort’s focus on the defense, specifically the defensive line; an edge rusher has not been signed yet so might the Cardinals be waiting for the draft, and if so, what does that mean when it comes to the fourth overall pick? Also, backup quarterback was addressed, and if there was still a question about Kyler Murray’s status within the building, there isn’t anymore. Plus, Aaron Donald retired; and what’s this, Paul got a dog over the weekend?!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 735 - In what is likely the first of many moves to provide the team depth along the defensive line going into next season, the Cardinals re-signed veteran L.J. Collier on Friday. It’s a one-year deal ahead of the official start of free agency. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck discuss the decision to bring back Collier, who played less than one game last season after suffering a biceps injury in Week 1. It was one of several injuries suffered at the position, and the Cardinals struggled because of it, especially against the run. Also, wide receiver Greg Dortch is back, a smart move according to Craig and Dani, who both believe Dortch has earned himself more playing time on offense. Will he be given the chance?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 734 - Free agency begins in one week, so how does GM Monti Ossenfort approach the market? Does he re-sign players? Does he bring in new players? Or is it some combination of both? Bottom line is a lot of decisions need to be made at several different positions. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss some of those decisions, specifically at cornerback, safety and running back; highlighting Zach’s free agent primers on azcardinals.com. Also, what are the mock drafts saying post-Scouting Combine? What, if any, are the changes at No. 4 and No. 27? Finally, the guys give an update on offensive lineman Jon Gaines, who missed all of last season with a knee injury, and recently spent time in Florida with a handful of his teammates learning financial literacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 733 - It happens every year. One or two quarterbacks will hear their name called earlier than projected; and for some, a lot earlier. If that happens this year, then the Cardinals, who have the fourth overall pick, stand to benefit. Craig Grialou - fresh off a week-long stay in Indianapolis for the 2024 Scouting Combine - and Paul Calvisi discuss the many options for GM Monti Ossenfort, especially given what happened at the combine. Several prospects impressed last week, including at positions the Cardinals are in very much need of, outside of quarterback of course. Also, free agency begins in a week. Does it make sense to run it back with wide receiver Hollywood Brown?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 732 - Do the Cardinals go wide receiver or is the choice offensive line? And maybe there is no wrong decision. Charles Davis, NFL Network and NFL on CBS analyst, joined Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck from Indianapolis, site of the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, to talk about what the Cardinals may do with the fourth overall pick. Other topics discussed with Davis included why some teams may prioritize cornerback over edge rusher in the draft, why he’s no longer skeptical about Kyler Murray, and what impressed him the most when he was on the call for the Cardinals’ Week 15 game against the San Francisco 49ers. Also, Grialou and Sureck revisit what Jonathan Gannon had to say about playing rookies earlier than some coaches may.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 729 - That’s where games are won or lost, right? The Cardinals need to invest in the offensive line and defensive line this offseason. But how? Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman put the line of scrimmage under the microscope. Who’s under contract? Who isn’t under contract? And then, what’s the level of need when looking ahead to free agency and the draft? Speaking of the draft, the Scouting Combine is next week. (Programming note: Cardinals Cover 2 will be in Indianapolis.) More than 300 prospects have been invited. The Cardinals will have their eyes on a number of players. And, again, the line of scrimmage is likely to take priority, especially given the history of GM Monti Ossenfort, as limited as it may be. There is, though, a certain wide receiver out of Ohio State who may be hard to pass up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 728 - The Scouting Combine is in two weeks. Free agency begins in one month. The NFL Draft happens at the end of April. In other words, what offseason? This, though, is the time when teams look to improve their rosters. The Cardinals are no exception. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck talk about what’s ahead, first with a conversation about the needs on offense and then shifting their attention to the defense, the side of the ball where it may be best to spend to help fill many of the needs. All the above is discussed on what is the one-year anniversary of the Cardinals naming Jonathan Gannon head coach. And, oh yeah, it’s Valentine’s Day, too. Enjoy the day, Birdgang!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 727 - Of course, the Cardinals’ offseason began more than a month ago. But with Super Bowl 58 now in the rearview mirror, the entire league is on the clock. The goal: to be where the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers were on Sunday, playing for the Lombardi Trophy. Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi breakdown the big game, from the plays that were made to the plays that weren’t made and the decision to receive to begin overtime. Also, what do the guys think about the report saying former Cardinals linebacker Haason Reddick has received permission to seek a trade from the Philadelphia Eagles? And the noise is getting louder - in a good way - about this year’s draft class of quarterbacks. Will the GM Monti Ossenfort listen to trade offers for pick No. 4?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 726 - Is James Conner’s stiff arm of Patrick Peterson in Week 13 worthy of Angry Run of the Year? Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman certainly think so. Everyone will find out on Thursday, when the Angry Run of the Year will be announced as part of NFL Honors. Budda Baker (Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award) and Jonathan Ledbetter (Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year) may also hear their names called during the league’s annual awards show. Also, the guys discuss why wide receiver has been a popular position among the Cardinals’ signings of future contracts; of course, the Super Bowl; plus Zach’s hatred for squirrels (and cats apparently), yes squirrels.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 725 - It is officially Super Bowl week. But before Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck discuss the big game, they discuss the just completed Pro Bowl and all the event’s activities. Budda Baker was the Cardinals’ lone representative. He had a hand in the NFC’s win over the AFC. He also stopped to talk with Sureck, who was in Orlando leading up to Sunday’s game. What did Baker have to say? How does Baker feel about the Cardinals after Year 1 under Monti Ossenfort and Jonathan Gannon? Also, Kliff Kingsbury is back in the league. And he’ll be coming back to State Farm Stadium next season. Grialou and Sureck give their thoughts on the Washington Commanders new offensive coordinator.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 724 - Teams are built from the inside out. That said, the Cardinals are in great position with the fourth overall pick. Do they go offensive line, or do they go wide receiver? Is there a right answer? Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi discuss the options. Of course, Calvisi is hoping GM Monti Ossenfort trades down, adding more draft capital. Also, they react in real time to the Cardinals’ first two moves in free agency - re-signing linebacker Jesse Luketa and offensive lineman Carter O’Donnell - as well as the reported news that the Seattle Seahawks have hired Mike Macdonald, the now former Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator, as their new head coach.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 723 - The offseason is not even a month old and there is already some early buzz that the Cardinals will be a playoff team in 2024. Of course, a lot needs to happen between now and then, but it does speak to how well the team competed in Jonathan Gannon’s first season as head coach. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck talk playoffs, both next season and this season. How do they feel about the Super Bowl matchup: 49ers and Chiefs? Especially the 49ers’ presence in the big game? Also, Sureck is headed to the Pro Bowl later in the week. The game is Sunday. Budda Baker will be there. Might one of his teammates be joining him? Maybe Trey McBride?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 722 - It is award season and, well, Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman didn’t want to be left out. It is time for the 2023 Cardinals Awards, as voted by the 30-person Content & Creative Team. There are six categories. Some winners were more obvious than others. Other winners faced tougher competition, most notably Offensive Player of the Year and Beyond the Box Score Player of the Year. All results have been posted on azcardinals.com. Do you agree? Do you disagree? Also, the guys look ahead to the weekend and Championship Sunday. Who do they see representing the AFC and NFC and therefore will be headed to Las Vegas and Super Bowl 58.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 721 - No dancing, like John Harbaugh. Shirts will remain on, unlike Jason Kelce. With that said, Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi dive into the divisional round of the playoffs; the biggest stories coming from the weekend’s four games. Of course, one of the bigger stories - at least for Cardinals fans - is the Cardinals now know their second first-round pick in April’s draft will be 27th overall. That led to a discussion about positions of need plus talk of how well Paris Johnson Jr. performed in his first season in the league. Also, the guys shout-out a handful of assistants who have been selected to coach in two of the upcoming all-star games, the East-West Shrine Bowl and Senior Bowl.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 720 - Ahead of next week’s announcement of the annual Arizona Cardinals Year-End Awards, Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck discuss - after a brief conversation about Blockbuster Video, a conversation Dani started much to the surprise and enjoyment of Craig - who they voted for in six separate categories. They agreed on Newcomer of the Year, Beyond the Box Score Player of the Year and Play of the Year. They disagreed on Offensive Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year and Most Valuable Cardinal. There was also discussion about this weekend’s playoff games. Who do they see surviving the divisional round?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 719 - A loss on Sunday ended the regular season, but it did not end the good feelings surrounding the 2023 Arizona Cardinals. In fact, it’s just the opposite. There is a lot to look forward to; and, yes, a lot of work to do. Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi begin the offseason discussion, first with a look back at the 21-20 loss to the Seattle Seahawks - who knows, maybe come April the loss will be a blessing in disguise - and then they point to the number of positives, both individually and collectively as an organization. Also, for one final time, Calvisi hands out his weekly Angry Bird Award. The winner, based on his performance in Week 18, should not be a surprise to anyone.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 718 - Never has James Conner ran for 1,000 yards in a season. And only once has he eclipsed 900 rushing yards in a season. Conner has a chance to reach both milestones on Sunday when the Cardinals host the Seattle Seahawks. It is the last game of the season, and what better way to go out than with a win and a career achievement. Also, a win would eliminate the Seahawks from the playoffs. A bonus if you will. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman look ahead to the Week 18 matchup; who will, who won’t be available and what Jonathan Gannon said about the season-finale. Plus, the guys get the Seattle perspective. John Boyle, team reporter for the Seahawks, joins the show.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 717 - Very unfortunate news on Wednesday. Starting left tackle - and the longest-tenured Cardinals player - D.J. Humphries will miss the season finale on Sunday, and he will likely miss a good chunk of the start of next season due to torn ACL. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck discuss what that means moving forward for the offensive line, a position that has been a pleasant surprise this season. Other pleasant surprises this season: running back Michael Carter and wide receiver Greg Dortch. Both, it appears, have solidified their roster spots in 2024. And maybe it didn’t need to be said, but Jonathan Gannon said it anyway. Kyler Murray is his franchise quarterback, answering the biggest question going into the season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 716 - No question it was the best win of the season. And for head coach Jonathan Gannon, it had to have been the most satisfying win of the season. Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi look back at Sunday’s come-from-behind 35-31 victory at the Philadelphia Eagles. So many contributors - Gannon does like to say “it takes all 11 on the field.” Kyler Murray played his best game of the season; James Conner highlighted a rushing attack that totaled better than 200 yards - shout-out to the offensive line and center Hjalte Froholdt who earned Calvisi’s Angry Bird Award for the week - there was production from the wide receiver position; and let’s not forget about the defense, which started its 16th different lineup in as many games. Not a bad way to begin 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 715 - When the schedule was released in May, this was among the more anticipated matchups. And it had nothing to do with the players themselves. No, it had everything to do with the two head coaches and the location. On Sunday in Philadelphia, head coach Jonathan Gannon faces good friend and the man he worked under for two years with the Eagles as defensive coordinator, Nick Sirianni, in the city whose fanbase still harbors resentment about Gannon’s departure. It should be a fun one in Week 17. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman look ahead to the game, which will see Kyler Murray play quarterback despite an illness earlier in the week. Plus, the guys get the Philadelphia perspective. Dave Spadaro, team reporter for the Eagles, joins the show.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 714 - The Cardinals haven’t faced a ton of dual-threat quarterbacks this season. Lamar Jackson comes to mind back in Week 8. But here the Cardinals are, for the second straight week, preparing to face a quarterback who is as good with his arm as he is with his legs. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck discuss what to expect from Jalen Hurts and what the Cardinals defense may have learned from just playing Justin Fields. A different challenge, yes; yet the goal is the same: keep the quarterback in the pocket, something they did not do last week. Also, the latest from practice. No Kyler Murray or Hollywood Brown, but there was a Leki Fotu sighting as he has been designated to return from injured reserve.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 713 - And here’s hoping the Cardinals deliver what every fan wants: a win. The Cardinals will be spending Christmas Eve day in Chicago, the first of back-to-back road games to close out the calendar year. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss the matchup. Who is and who isn’t available? Plus, the guys get the Chicago perspective. Kevin Fishbain, Bears beat writer for The Athletic, joins the show. The Bears have the No. 1 run defense, and we know what happened the last time the Cardinals faced the league’s best against the run; they ran for a season-high 234 yards. The key, though, may be Trey McBride. He’s on every team’s radar now coming off a second 100-receiving yard game.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 712 - The number is zero. As in zero sacks over the past three weeks. And it’s not just about the sacks. The Cardinals aren’t doing enough to affect the quarterback, and the defense has suffered as a result. The solution? Find what the Chicago Bears, this week’s opponent, found with the acquisition of Montez Sweat. He has almost single-handily turned around that defense. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck go over some of the numbers. Plus, there is news - and not good news - in the tight end room; how do the Cardinals get more production out of their wide receivers; and why Sureck is keeping her fingers crossed the weather stays rain-free on Sunday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 711 - One thing is guaranteed about the 2023 Arizona Cardinals: They will compete. And they will compete until the clock shows triple zeros. Unfortunately, when that happened on Sunday, the Cardinals were on the wrong end of a 45-29 decision to the visiting San Francisco 49ers. Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi - yes, he’s back - look back at the Week 15 loss. The offense was good, at times, i.e., James Conner and Trey McBride, but field goals were not going to beat the 49ers; though Matt Prater did earn the coveted Angry Bird Award for the week. Defensively, just too much Brock Purdy and too much Christian McCaffrey. Too much of the time it just looked too easy for the, once again, NFC West division winners.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 710 - To be honest, it’s a very good offense that Brock Purdy - valley native - is leading. And that is the challenge facing the Cardinals on Sunday. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman preview the Week 15 matchup at State Farm Stadium. It’s the second time the Cardinals will face the 49ers, though the first time with Kyler Murray, who missed the Week 4 game. The Cardinals are 2-2 since Murray’s return. The 49ers, meanwhile, with Purdy, not only lead the NFC West, but they also lead the entire NFC thanks to the league’s third-best scoring offense and No. 1 scoring defense. For more on what’s been going right in San Francisco, the guys are joined by Lindsey Pallares, team reporter for the 49ers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 709 - Four games left. Two at home. Two on the road. Two against the division. And all are important for a number of players, when we start looking ahead to next season. The coaches won’t look ahead, but Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck will. Who, outside of Kyler Murray, are these final four games most important for, both on offense and defense? Also, the latest from Wednesday’s practice. Hollywood Brown wasn’t spotted during the open portion. There were Michael Wilson, Antonio Hamilton and Starling Thomas sightings, however; all three had been dealing with injuries heading into the bye week. Plus, the NFL is expanding its international reach when it comes to regular season games. Might the Cardinals be making a trip overseas soon?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 708 - After a few days off, it was back to work for coaches and players on Monday. And it appeared that the bye week was beneficial for a handful of players who had been missing in action. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman speak to who was - Michael Wilson - and who wasn’t - Hollywood Brown - on the practice field. Other topics of discussion included what a returning Antonio Hamilton may mean at cornerback; the multiple honors earned by James Conner after his performance against the Steelers; how well Trey McBride is playing; an early look at Sunday’s opponent, NFC-West leading 49ers; and why the Cardinals will have a say in who becomes the No. 1 seed in the NFC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 707 - In the end, the weather was not a factor. It just delayed the outcome; and maybe even made the result even more impressive. The Cardinals went into Pittsburgh, braved the elements, and left Acrisure Stadium with a 24-10 win and their first road victory of the season. Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi look back at all that went right for the Cardinals, highlighted by the homecoming performance of James Conner. Plus, Kyler Murray, though his numbers don’t reflect it, played one of his better games since his return; Trey McBride continues to take his game to the next level; Greg Dortch just makes plays; and kudos to the no-name defensive line, especially Kevin Strong who earned Calvisi’s Angry Bird Award for Week 13.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 706 - It has been three years since James Conner left Pittsburgh, his home both in college and the start of his NFL career, for Arizona. Sunday marks his return. And hopefully marks his return to being the focal point of the offense. James was not last week against the Rams. This week, though, that should change. It needs to change. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss the game with the Steelers, who are playing good football right now. Also, the guys get the Pittsburgh perspective. Craig Wolfley, Steelers radio analyst and the older brother of Cardinals radio analyst Ron Wolfley, joins the show. But first, how Jonathan Gannon got to work Friday morning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.