The talk all week regarding the Cardinals was how improved their defense had become and who would line up under center for them at quarterback. The former was clearly evident as the Cardinals held the Redskins’ offense to just 160 total yards. Portis’ yards were hard-earned; he seemed to absorb smashing hits almost every time he got the ball. His two touchdowns in the redzone were the only offensive scores on a day in which the Redskins struggled to take advantage of opportunities given to them by the defense.
Hands down, Fletcher is one of the best free agent additions in years. His presence has solidified not only the middle linebacker position but the whole defense as well. He seemed to be everywhere when the Cardinals’ offense was on the field. Along with his 13 tackles, Fletcher, led by a cavalry of teammates, ran his first interception of the season, 27 yards, for his second career touchdown as he dove into the endzone to give the Redskins a 14-0 lead.
Special Teams: Rock Cartwright
1 kickoff return, 80 yards
Rock had his best opportunity to break loose this week with his dazzling 80-yard return on the opening kickoff of the second half. Run down by Cardinals’ cornerback Antrell Rolle, Cartwright came close to returning his first touchdown since Week 2 of the 2006 season. Although banged up on the play, he later returned to assist on coverage units.
ARTICLE TOOLS 
