Cardinals and Broncos Coaches Opt for Reserve Players in Preseason Matchup

What's Happening?

The Arizona Cardinals and Denver Broncos are set to face off in a preseason game at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado. Scheduled for August 16 at 9:30 p.m. ET, the game will be broadcast on NFL Network and available for streaming on DIRECTV. Coaches Sean Payton of the Broncos and Jonathan Gannon of the Cardinals have announced that the game will primarily feature reserve players, following joint practices earlier in the week. This approach is typical for preseason games, where teams often use the opportunity to evaluate fringe players and those fighting for roster spots.

Why It's Important?

Preseason games are crucial for NFL teams as they provide a platform to assess the depth of their rosters and the potential of lesser-known players. For the Cardinals and Broncos, this game offers a chance to identify emerging talent and make strategic decisions ahead of the regular season. The focus on reserve players allows coaches to test different combinations and strategies without risking injury to key starters. This can impact team dynamics and player selections, influencing the overall performance in the upcoming season.

What's Next?

Following this preseason matchup, both teams will continue to refine their rosters and strategies as they prepare for the regular season. Coaches will analyze player performances to make decisions on final roster cuts and starting lineups. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see which players stand out and how these decisions might affect the teams' prospects in the regular season. The outcome of this game could also influence future preseason strategies and player development plans.