Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur just dropped the news: his starters are hitting the field for two series this Thursday night against the Las Vegas Raiders. This isn’t just a quick cameo, either; it’s a serious test for a team that’s already had an extra exhibition game in the Hall of Fame Game last week against the Carolina Panthers. While the rest of the league plays three preseason contests, these two squads get a bonus game, and LaFleur isn’t wasting the opportunity to push his guys.
It’s Go-Time for Brissett and the Main Crew
Look, getting your starters some live game reps in preseason is pretty standard stuff. LaFleur confirmed it himself in a Tuesday press conference when asked about Thursday, saying, “They’re all going to play. So, we’ll have our guys out there.” He was clear it wouldn’t be much, “Could be one drive, max of two for those main guys. They’ll be playing, and they know that. So, that includes Jacoby.” That means QB1 Jacoby Brissett is leading the charge for those crucial first two series. Back in the day, with four exhibition games, you’d see a full quarter or even a half from starters in later games. So, two series in the Cardinals’ second preseason outing feels exactly right for getting players up to speed and evaluating where they’re at before the real battles begin.
Why Every Snap Matters Right Now
This isn’t just about knocking off rust, folks. The Cardinals coaching staff needs to see some serious progress, and fast. For starters, the offensive line hasn’t gelled at all yet. That’s a huge problem, and they need to start clicking. Then there’s the receiver group. LaFleur’s staff needs a much clearer picture of who’s ready, especially those three or four guys who could actually make the roster. We’re talking about players like Jalen Brooks, Bryson Green, Ihmir Smith-Marsette, and rookie Reggie Virgil. On the defensive side, the defensive line needs some serious game action too. Fans will be watching to see how DE Darius Robinson is progressing and how new addition DT Roy Lopez fits into the scheme. Every single snap is a chance for these guys to prove they belong.
The Quarterback Questions Loom Large
And, of course, the quarterback position. All eyes will be on Jacoby Brissett in his limited snaps. How sharp will he look? Will he command the offense? But it’s not just Brissett; the Cardinals need to get a good look at the entire QB room. Will we finally see Gardner Minshew in action for more than a handful of plays? Can Carson Beck pick up right where he left off in practice? And what kind of potential will Kedon Slovis provide? There are a lot of questions, and these preseason games are the only way to get some answers.
The Cardinals face the Las Vegas Raiders this Thursday, August 13th, at Allegiant Stadium. After that, they’re back home on August 22nd to host the Dallas Cowboys. These next two games are absolutely critical for LaFleur and his staff to nail down who can contribute when the regular season kicks off. Every player out there needs to fight for their spot!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Revenge of the Birds.
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