Cardinals Plot Game Plan Against Giants

The Arizona Cardinals have their work cut out for them this Sunday. But there are key strategies, which could get the Cardinals the win over the Giants in New York.

GAME PLAN: The Cardinals know they probably won't gain a lot of yards rushing against the Giants, but they have to at least maintain the threat of the run. That will open up play-action pass downfield. Look for the Cardinals to try and slow the rush with draws and screens, too. Defensively, the Cardinals have been great against the run this year, ranking first in the league. They should be able to control the Giants there. The key will be limiting big plays by the Giants passing game. The Giants are fairly young at receiver, but they have speed and the Cardinals have given up some big plays this year.

MATCHUPS TO WATCH:

Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald vs. Giants CB Terrell Thomas and S C.C. Brown.

Cornerback Aaron Ross has been out with a hamstring injury, and safety Kenny Phillips is out for the year. The Saints were able to find numerous mismatches last week in the passing game, and the Cardinals could do the same.

Giants DE Justin Tuck vs. Cardinals RT Levi Brown.

Brown's strength is run blocking, and he's struggled against some good rushers this season. The Giants run some twists and stunts, which have given the Cardinals problems, too.

Cardinals DE Darnell Dockett vs. Giants OTs Kareem McKenzie or Will Beatty.

McKenzie suffered a groin injury last week, and his status is unknown. Dockett is one of the best ends in the league, with an explosive first step. He has only one sack, but he is as disruptive as any end in the league.

INJURY IMPACT:

WR Anquan Boldin suffered a sprained ankle last week and might miss some practice time this week. Boldin played a limited amount in the second half with the injury and coaches are hoping he can play against the Giants. Steve Breaston will start if Boldin is out, and Jerheme Urban will move up to the No. 3 role. ...

CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie has a fractured right index finger, but has played for two weeks with it. ...

LG Reggie Wells has a serious injury to his left thumb, but has playing been playing through it. ...

TE Stephen Spach suffered a right ankle sprain and missed last week's game. He likely will be questionable this week. The club has Ben Patrick and Anthony Becht so Spach's absence isn't a huge blow. ...

RB Beanie Wells was limited in Wednesday's practice with a hip ailment. He should be able to play on Sunday.