I didn't see a thread started for this game so figured I'd jump the gun. From a general NFL fan perspective, this is a fascinating match-up of two powerhouse teams. A lot of interesting questions to discuss. Can Carolina rush the Cardinals with 4 down lineman, like they did for much of the game against Seattle, and have success making Palmer uncomfortable in the pocket? How much will Arizona have to blitz to get home against Cam? Can they succeed in keeping him contained? How will Josh Norman be deployed against Arizona's deep passing attack? I know the early game will get more focus because of the quarterbacks but this is the more interesting game on Sunday, from a neutral perspective, for me.
And then for Pats fans- who would you rather play in the Super Bowl, if the Patriots advance? I can certainly see arguments for both, but barring more injuries to either team I think the Pats match-up a tad bit better against the Cardinals. Even with Jared Allen primed to miss the rest of the postseason, Carolina has a nasty front 4 rotation that boasts several potential game-busting players. Combine that with the best LB duo in the league, and I'd prefer the Brady and co. take their chances with blitz-heavy Arizona. And then on offense, while Carolina's receiving corps don't scare anyone, I have no interest in watching Cam Newton extend plays and wear out the Pats front by making plays with his legs.
And then for Pats fans- who would you rather play in the Super Bowl, if the Patriots advance? I can certainly see arguments for both, but barring more injuries to either team I think the Pats match-up a tad bit better against the Cardinals. Even with Jared Allen primed to miss the rest of the postseason, Carolina has a nasty front 4 rotation that boasts several potential game-busting players. Combine that with the best LB duo in the league, and I'd prefer the Brady and co. take their chances with blitz-heavy Arizona. And then on offense, while Carolina's receiving corps don't scare anyone, I have no interest in watching Cam Newton extend plays and wear out the Pats front by making plays with his legs.