I can understand complaining about the oline, the head coach, even the QB (who put up great numbers). I really don't understand fans wanting to criticize this defense now. They have made major strides the past two weeks and shutout a very prolific offense on the road for an entire half. The Cardinals only converted 2 third downs the entire game: they gave up one fisrt down in the entire 2nd half, and had 4 3 and outs.
By the way, it's hard to have sacks when you are trailing the entire game. Most sacks come when QBs predictably throw from 7 step drops. The ineffectiveness of the offense in the first half had a lot to do with the lack of sacks. If Warner was in a position where he had to make plays late, then there would be some sacks. Instead, the pressure led to him throwing the ball away (a lot) in the second half.
I'd say it was a darn good defensive effort for a team starting 2 rookies and only 5 games in to a new scheme. They are getting pressure, laying punishing hits, making plays, stopping the run, and getting the ball back to the offense.
Arizona had 11 posessions of consequence and scored 3 times. 340 total yards. 1 turnover. 5 3 and outs, 1 Turnover... who wouldn't have taken that going into the day. This loss is on the offense and some questionable coaching decisions in the second half.
2 very good consecutive defensive efforts! I still think this team wins 10-11 games. I expect a 3 game win streak starting Sunday at Cincy.