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Cardinals Not Worried Heading Into Chicago
This story originally published on AZRedReport.com
Darnell Dockett (Getty)
Darnell Dockett (Getty)
By The Sports Xchange

Posted Nov 6, 2009

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The Cardinals don't appear to be worrying much as they try to rebound from one of their worst defensive performances of the year. They yielded 270 rushing yards to the Panthers last week in a 34-21 defeat. The tackling was especially sloppy, a sign that the group was not mentally into the game.

Defensive end Darnell Dockett said his teammates need to put aside personal concerns and focus on their jobs.

"I know a lot of guys have a lot of things on their minds," Dockett said. "Personal issues at home, financial things and regular-life situations. I just try to get my guys when they come to the field to (think), 'Hey, for this next two hours, just focus on what we got to do to be successful on Sunday.'

"You usually don't win a game on Sunday. You usually win the games Wednesday, Thursday, Friday in practice. I'm just trying to get my guys to understand that you can't just turn it on on Sunday."

Last Sunday's game was a sign of immaturity from a defense that had appeared to grow up over the previous months. It was starting to look like a solid unit during the team's three-game win streak, with especially dominant performances at Seattle and against the Giants.

The Cardinals can't place the blame on anything but a lack of effort. Every starter played last week, but the gap discipline was poor, as was the containment on the back side of runs.

The Cardinals will face a similar challenge Sunday from the Bears, who rushed for 170 yards last week against the Brown.

PLAYER/PERSONNEL NOTES

--WR Anquan Boldin has missed two practices this week and likely will be a game-time decision on Sunday. Boldin has a sprained ankle that might not improve until he takes time off. Boldin doesn't seem keen on sitting out, however.

--CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie continues to play with a small cast on his right hand and he suffered a sprained ankle last week. But he's participated fully in every practice this week and seems to be running well.

--FS Antrel Rolle has a small rupture in a ligament in his right foot and has practiced on a limited basis this week. He should play in the game.

--DE Darnell Dockett is playing through a sore right ankle. He missed Wednesday's practice but is expected to play. Dockett, in his sixth season, has never missed a game.

--LB Gerald Hayes missed practice this week with back spasms. He is expected to play Sunday at Chicago.

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 -by AZRedReport.com  Nov 8, 2009

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WR Anquan Boldin (profile)
DT Darnell Dockett (profile)
MLB Gerald Hayes (profile)
CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (profile)
FS Antrel Rolle (profile)
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