What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The Arizona Cardinals are facing a significant challenge following the injury of their starting running back, James Conner, who is out for the rest of the season due to an ankle injury. This development has prompted the team to rely on a rotation of backup running backs, including Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Bam Knight. Benson, who has accumulated 125 yards on 21 carries this season, is expected to take on the primary role. He expressed his readiness to step up, motivated by Conner's mentorship. The Cardinals' running game has struggled to find rhythm, averaging 4.65 yards per carry and 114 yards per game, which is a decline from last season's performance. Coach Jonathan Gannon emphasized the need for more efficient runs to avoid setbacks in game situations.
Why It's Important?
James Conner's absence is a significant blow to the Cardinals, as he was a key player in their offensive strategy. The team's ability to adapt and maintain a strong running game is crucial for their success in the season. The performance of the backup running backs will be pivotal in determining the Cardinals' competitiveness in the league. This situation highlights the importance of depth in team rosters and the need for players to be prepared to step up when injuries occur. The Cardinals' response to this challenge could impact their standings and playoff prospects.
What's Next?
The Cardinals will need to adjust their game plan to accommodate the new running back rotation. Trey Benson and his fellow backups will have increased opportunities to prove their capabilities on the field. The coaching staff will likely focus on improving the efficiency of the running game to prevent negative impacts on game outcomes. The team's performance in upcoming games will be closely watched to assess how well they manage without Conner and whether the backup players can fill the void effectively.
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