So why did Edge get benched?

[English on tour]

still think Edge has a place on the team this year, IF he can be a team player.

as a backup he would do for me. coming in late in games could do something. Also, he was a great back, someone that Timmy could learn a lot from.....but only if he does what is right for the team.

just watching th post game presser and Timmy talking about the help he has had from Edge...all is not lost, but pretty expensive coach if he doesnt do anything on the field i guess.

 

[Black Jesus]

there is no place for a slow rb who doesn't break tackles. why should he see the field?

WOW... i have been saying that for weeks and you kept saying that he deserved to get PT. I know you always liked Hightower, but you were definitely an Edge defender until today when we saw what it was like to have a RB that could hit holes before they closed...

EDGE lost his EDGE

 

[Black Jesus]

Adding on, I think Edge has a place on this team as a mentor to younger players- Arrington and Hightower for the rest of the year.

Next year Edge should be cut with money placed straight into Q's pocket.

Leinart should be cut as well. We can not waste Q and Fitz's prime of their careers on a questionable at best Q. Signing an accurate veteran is whats most important!

That leaves ALOT of FA spending money to sure up OL and our questionable corners.

 

[john h]

And I mean benched. He didn't get one snap, at all. I am a little surprised at that; is he in the doghouse?

I understand starting Tim, but I don't understand why Edge didn't even sniff the field one time.


To be clear, once more. I understand and am in favor of why he didn't START. I'm wondering why he didn't get a snap at all.

Critical fumble last week. Hightower probably showing up better in practice. Edge is showing his age for a RB.

 

[D-Dogg]

Critical fumble last week. Hightower probably showing up better in practice. Edge is showing his age for a RB.

I know this all. Edge has been done for awhile, and the fumble last week sealed the deal for me as to starting Tim. But Edge might as well have been inactive today.

I know and agree with why Hightower got the start. I am curious as to why Edge was basically not even on the team. Was that a "shut the hell up to the media, Edge" move and Edge will still get some carries in future games, or is this the way it will go for the rest of the season...Edge only seeing the field if someone gets injured? I'd be fine with the latter, for the record. I'm all for rolling with Tim and JJ and letting them hit the holes and use their burst.

In essence, my question is will Edge ever see the field again in AZ, or was this simply a punishment move from Whis and Edge will split carries with Hightower going forward? Since it wasn't addressed, and nobody said anything about the complaining in the media, making Edge a DNP-CD kind of surprised me. I'm thinking, and hoping, that he won't be getting any more carries.

 

[abomb]

Edge will get carries going forward.

JMHPLDO
(Just My Honest Pariah-Like Disclaimer Opinion)

 

[Arizona's Finest]

I know this all. Edge has been done for awhile, and the fumble last week sealed the deal for me as to starting Tim. But Edge might as well have been inactive today.

I know and agree with why Hightower got the start. I am curious as to why Edge was basically not even on the team. Was that a "shut the hell up to the media, Edge" move and Edge will still get some carries in future games, or is this the way it will go for the rest of the season...Edge only seeing the field if someone gets injured? I'd be fine with the latter, for the record. I'm all for rolling with Tim and JJ and letting them hit the holes and use their burst.

In essence, my question is will Edge ever see the field again in AZ, or was this simply a punishment move from Whis and Edge will split carries with Hightower going forward? Since it wasn't addressed, and nobody said anything about the complaining in the media, making Edge a DNP-CD kind of surprised me. I'm thinking, and hoping, that he won't be getting any more carries.

I understand what your asking but it doesn't seem like anyone else does.

It's not so much the demotion but rather the fact that he didn't get ONE snap. Even "backups" get in the game. There must be something underlying here.

I read a story right after the game and Edge said this had been brewing for awhile and he wasn't shocked. He sound VERY bitter however when he made a comment like "We knew whoever was in there would have a big day because of the way they were playing against the run"(paraphrase)

I think Edge is delusional and that's common among high profile athletes who just lose it. Even when he goes to bed tonight he has to realize he couldn't have done what Tim did today. And thats expected. He is on the latter part of his career and has had his time in the Sun.

St Louis will spend the next year going through the same thing with Holt all too soon.....

 

[Crimson Warrior]

I know this all. Edge has been done for awhile, and the fumble last week sealed the deal for me as to starting Tim. But Edge might as well have been inactive today.

I know and agree with why Hightower got the start. I am curious as to why Edge was basically not even on the team. Was that a "shut the hell up to the media, Edge" move and Edge will still get some carries in future games, or is this the way it will go for the rest of the season...Edge only seeing the field if someone gets injured? I'd be fine with the latter, for the record. I'm all for rolling with Tim and JJ and letting them hit the holes and use their burst.

In essence, my question is will Edge ever see the field again in AZ, or was this simply a punishment move from Whis and Edge will split carries with Hightower going forward? Since it wasn't addressed, and nobody said anything about the complaining in the media, making Edge a DNP-CD kind of surprised me. I'm thinking, and hoping, that he won't be getting any more carries.

It's hard to say what Whiz will do. Maybe if Hightower is having a bad game, edge will get some carries.

But JJ is probably a better "3rd down back" than edge, and I think that's part of the reason why we saw JJ instead of edge today.

I've been one of the most vocal of Edge supporters, but Overall, it was a stunning difference in the running attack today, and I don't care if he gets another carry. Edge as had plenty of carries in AZ and he's received a fair amount of money from the Bidwills. He's had a good run, and he might even get another ring this year if he will just be cool.

 

[Duckjake]

The real question is: Why did it take so long?

I would venture to guess that Russ Grimm was tired of the fingers being pointed at the o-line as to why we couldn't run, and he lobbied Whiz for the change.

JTS

It didn't work.

Hightower had 14 carries where he managed 2 yards or less or was tackled for a loss. (3 of those at the end of the first drive.)

The fingers are still pointing.

 

[PDXChris]

Leinart should be cut as well.

Worst statement of the day. :dcr: Look at Green Bay and having a first rounder wait his turn for 4 years.

 

[Stout]

I know I counted several runs where Edge would have been stopped for no gain or a short gain, and Hightower made 10.

On a side note, how about JJ Arrington? He is well worth keeping around, IMO.

 

[Russ Smith]

It didn't work.

Hightower had 14 carries where he managed 2 yards or less or was tackled for a loss. (3 of those at the end of the first drive.)

The fingers are still pointing.

True the long runs made up for it but there were still issues with guys getting too much penetration. JJ had the same thing I think 3 of his 6 carries were for 1 yard or less, there were still too many plays where we just didn't get the RB a chance due to penetration.

I do somewhat see what Edge meant by the way the Rams played the run today they were at most times playing 2 deep safety 7 in the box and at some times they had 6 in the box and an extra DB in on early downs. I'm sure that's what Edge means by how they played the run.

I said it on the game threw sure 50+ was a fluke pass that should have been picked and instead went for an Urban TD, but Warner had 200 yards passing in the second quarter alone, that was pretty impressive against a defense that was playing pass.

 

[Duckjake]

True the long runs made up for it but there were still issues with guys getting too much penetration. JJ had the same thing I think 3 of his 6 carries were for 1 yard or less, there were still too many plays where we just didn't get the RB a chance due to penetration.

I do somewhat see what Edge meant by the way the Rams played the run today they were at most times playing 2 deep safety 7 in the box and at some times they had 6 in the box and an extra DB in on early downs. I'm sure that's what Edge means by how they played the run.

I said it on the game threw sure 50+ was a fluke pass that should have been picked and instead went for an Urban TD, but Warner had 200 yards passing in the second quarter alone, that was pretty impressive against a defense that was playing pass.

Also two of Arrington's receptions went for negative yardage where he was swarmed under almost immediately.

Until the Cards Oline can block 4 with 5 and at least get some push on run plays I'll say they are average or below. One thing that puzzles me is that the Cards line still looks like a Chinese fire drill on running plays while other teams olines seem to move as a "line". Is that the blocking scheme? If so I thought that would change with Grimm but I guess not.

On a side note there were a couple of pass plays where Hightower did a great job of blocking. I was really impressed.

 

[Cbus cardsfan]

Whiz said in his presser last week that the betrer players will play.Maybe he just decided that Hightower was finally the better player. Plus, he should only get better with more playing time.

 

[Bobcat]

Sometimes you have to make a subordinate understand they're not the alpha dog. Whisenhunt just took away Edge's toys for peeing on the carpet too many times. He was put in his place and told to shut up in the media. Plain and simple.

Cannot agree with you more Vince. I wish that Edge gets the message form the Kid. who gave him the game ball for how much Edge has helped him during his rookie season.


BOBCAT

 

[MadCardDisease]

Now that Edge is a backup, I want to see him replace Hightower on special teams. If Hightower is the starter from here on he shouldn't be playing on special teams.

 

[Russ Smith]

Also two of Arrington's receptions went for negative yardage where he was swarmed under almost immediately.

Until the Cards Oline can block 4 with 5 and at least get some push on run plays I'll say they are average or below. One thing that puzzles me is that the Cards line still looks like a Chinese fire drill on running plays while other teams olines seem to move as a "line". Is that the blocking scheme? If so I thought that would change with Grimm but I guess not.

On a side note there were a couple of pass plays where Hightower did a great job of blocking. I was really impressed.

Yep in fact I think I confused one of those pass plays for a run play in my 3 runs for 1 yard or less comment.

We are better this year but we still can't run a screen nearly as well as most NFL teams do. If you didn't know better sometimes you'd think Sendlein was telling the defense "screen" or something they just seem to know it's coming too often.

I like Lyle I think given how we got him he's done quite well but he's the kind of C that can be good if surrounded by quality OL's, right now he's surrounded by guys who aren't exactly above average themselves, and it just makes it tougher for Lyle.

As mentioned in the other thread the lack of consistency with Deuce is really getting on my nerves, it's like he just checks out mentally for several plays a game.

 

[DakotaCardsFan]

Now that Edge is a backup, I want to see him replace Hightower on special teams. If Hightower is the starter from here on he shouldn't be playing on special teams.

I don't think Hightower was playing special teams in the Rams game. I remember the camera showing him on the sidelines while the Cards were kicking off.

 

[Russ Smith]

To the original question, I'm almost wondering if they just decided, to be fair to Tim, give him one full game as the starter and see what he can do. The Rams were a logical team to try against since they're not a great defense, and since Edge struggled last week.

I just think maybe they decided if we use Edge a few plays here and there, Tim will just be looking over his shoulder, so bench Edge without making it public, Tim is the starter, JJ the backup and see what happens.

But that's just a guess I just don't think the Cards were mad enough at Edge complaining to the media because his complaints weren't all that bad. He basically said I'm used to playing, I want to play, but I've seen this coming for awhile now.

As far as I'm concerned so far Edge has been nothing but professional in this situation.

 

[Arizona's Finest]

Now that Edge is a backup, I want to see him replace Hightower on special teams. If Hightower is the starter from here on he shouldn't be playing on special teams.

LOL - File that one under "when hell freezes over......"

 

[john h]

This is definitely the end of Edge in Arizona because this game proved that they can not only win but thrive without him. There is no reason at all now to keep his salary on the books. There's no question now as to whether he'll be a Cardinal next year.

Edge was grounded for all the right reasons but that does not mean he is not on the team or will not play anymore. RB's are especially prone to injury. Even young ones. This has been especially true this year. Both of our star RB's from Arkansas are injured. Many teams now use two RB's as part of their everday offense. Let us no forget that Edge has gained over a 1000 yds a season for us and that if Hightower goes down he is the likely guy to replace him. Hightower really was impressive as was his blocking linemen and even our receivers who were blocking downfield. Hightower shows burst of speed and power that we do not see in Edge anymore. The announcers wondered how he would do when it came to protecting Warner on certain plays. I did not pay much attention so I do no know how he would grade out. Warner as usual, took some hits after his throws. I find it amazing that a 37 year old can get up time after time and put the ball on the money over and over. He leads the league in accuracy with what I think I heard was 70%. That seems very high but he is an amazing guy. If he continues to perform at this level he could be an MVP or ProBowler at age 37. Next year is really a big question with Warner. What if we go deep into the playoffs or even the unimaginable? How could you not resign Warner. No matter how good Matt is he will still almost be a rookie when he starts. If he can learn by watching then he should be a master as he is watching a master at work who is one of the best QB's the NL has ever seen. Watching is important but performing with fire breathing lineman in your face and holding on until the last moment is something you do not learn. You either can do it or you can't. Matt will be responsible for the happiness of all of us for years to come. If he is what we hope then he has some good people around him. If he is not the great QB search would resume.

Meantime lets enjoy what is looking like a playoff season with a team on a given day can beat anyone.

 

[john h]

Don't get me wrong... for the most part, I think Edge has done about as well as any back could have with this team... UP TO THIS YEAR...
I have been claiming for weeks that any other back - namely Hightower, would have been exploiting what this o-line has been providing way more than 'ol man Edge has done. And what do ya know - Hightower gets the start and blows it up! This could have happened much earlier in the season of course, but I no Whiz was giving Edge the nod because of "who is WAS", and not because he showed he was the better back.
All that said, why can't Whiz bench Edge and not say anything about it (of course, the post-game commentary and Monday morning talk-show reporting has yet to occur)? Edge has not done anything here in AZ to warrant any special treatment whatsoever... And his bitching to the media was most likely all that Whiz needed to finally say enough...


AS it should be:

I read early in the week that when asked Whiz said Hightower would be starting. He did not say why. I think none of us need bother asking that question as we have watched Edge all year. I never question his effort. For a RB he has lasted more than a long time. I am afraid time has probably passed his by other than the occasional spot play.

 

[john h]

Adding on, I think Edge has a place on this team as a mentor to younger players- Arrington and Hightower for the rest of the year.

Next year Edge should be cut with money placed straight into Q's pocket.

Leinart should be cut as well. We can not waste Q and Fitz's prime of their careers on a questionable at best Q. Signing an accurate veteran is whats most important!

That leaves ALOT of FA spending money to sure up OL and our questionable corners.

I think the guy who has shocked me more this year than anyone is Arrington. I was all for cutting him. Now he has finally found his role on this team. He can return the ball. Is showing good hands and speed on tosses to the outside. He is will never be a great inside runner but the coaches have put him in a position to succeed. Well done JJ. I thought you were a cowardly lion last year but you must have found your heart.

 

[phx_shelton]

Maybe it's because he was a no show at the charity bowling event on Thursday...LOL.

 

[phillycard]

I know I'm in the minority here but I'm not happy with Edge getting no carries. I just don't think it serves the team purpose when you have one it's best players steaming on the sidelines. (and yes he is still one of the best players) I agree that Tim should be playing more, and quite possibly starting from here on out, and that Edge is a good handful of carries away from the end of the road, and was a major reason we lost that game last week, but I firmly believe that this team is going to need him again at some point this year. It's a controversy that doesn't need to be one is all I'm saying.