Awaiting the Indianapolis Colts in Week 6 is a home matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.
To see how the Colts and Cardinals stack up and who has the advantage in certain key areas, you can find that here.
But for some added insight, Jess Root, the managing editor of Cardinals Wire, answered several of our questions about this year’s Cardinals team.
What is the early assessment of Kyler Murray’s play this season
Root: “Murray has played well, but not good enough to be a difference maker. He does what he is coached to do, and he has had dynamic moments, but he isn’t elevating the players around him.”
Editor’s note: Kyle Murray is listed as questionable for this game.
What’s been a strength of the Cardinals this season?
Root: “Their defense through three quarters has been solid. They are No. 1 in defensive EPA through three quarters. They have been solid at stopping the run. Defensive lineman Calais Campbell and outside linebacker Josh Sweat have been getting to the quarterback.”
On the flip side, where have they struggled?
Root: “It feels like everything. But mostly it is the play in the fourth quarter. They are 27th in defensive EPA in the fourth quarter. They needed a last-minute pass breakup in the end zone to keep the Saints from tying the game. The Panthers nearly came back. They gave up game-winning drives to the 49ers, Seahawks and Titans. They can’t get off the field or make plays when they need it most.
“The offensive and defensive playcalling is too conservative once they have a lead.”
Who is an under-the-radar player on offense and defense for Colts fans to know?
Root: “The offense is very much run through Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride, but watch for big plays by tight end Elijah Higgins. Higgins is a solid pass catcher and Kyler Murray will target him in key moments. He doesn’t get the volume of targets but does make plays.
“On defense, watch how Mack Wilson does against Jonathan Taylor. He had a great game against Christian McCaffrey.”
Prediction time: Who wins and why?
Root: “The Colts are doing too much offensively for the Cardinals to keep up with, especially if Jacoby Brissett has to start. The offense will struggle, and the defense will fade. “
Colts 27, Cardinals 16
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 4 things to know about Colts vs. Cardinals plus a prediction
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
