Green Bay Packers 2018 opponent preview: Arizona Cardinals
Green Bay Packers fans don’t need to be reminded about the last time the team played the Arizona Cardinals.
It was an incredible game of football that saw Jeff Janis make two spectacular Hail Mary catches to save the Green Bay Packers’ season. But a defensive error quickly turned overtime into a nightmare for Mike McCarthy’s team.
Arizona has since had two playoff-less seasons, and Green Bay, too, is looking to return to the postseason after a year out.
Let’s take a closer look at the Cardinals.
Last season
The Cardinals were inconsistent in 2017, finishing 8-8. You could argue it’s the worst record to finish on. You miss out on the playoffs, but also a top draft pick. Arizona did finish the season strong, going 4-2 down the stretch with impressive victories over the Jacksonville Jaguars and Seattle Seahawks.
When is the game?
The Packers host the Cardinals at Lambeau Field in Week 13. It kicks off a two-game home stretch, and a December featuring three games at Lambeau. The game begins at 12 noon CT on Sunday, Dec. 2.
Offseason additions
The offseason was all about finding an upgrade at quarterback. First, the team signed free agents Sam Bradford and Mike Glennon. While Bradford could start in the short term, the future belongs to Josh Rosen, who the Cardinals traded up to get in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
The focus was then about surrounding Rosen with talent. Arizona used four of its remaining five draft picks on offense: wide receiver Christian Kirk, running back Chase Edmonds and offensive linemen Mason Cole and Korey Cunningham.
Last meeting with Packers
January 16, 2016: Cardinals won 26-20 after overtime in the divisional round of the playoffs at the University of Phoenix Stadium
Player to watch
David Johnson: After missing almost the entire 2017 season due to injury, it’s easy to forget how dominant Johnson can be. Just two years ago he was a Pro Bowler and first-team All-Pro, rushing for 1,239 yards and 16 touchdowns, while also adding 879 receiving yards and four touchdowns.
For perspective, Johnson ranked 38th in the NFL for receiving yards that year, putting him ahead of Alshon Jeffery, Dez Bryant, Brandon Marshall and Randall Cobb.
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It’s difficult to actually stop Johnson. But limiting his production is key. If the Packers can prevent Johnson from dominating the game, it can be considered a success.