Matt Leinart is Arizona Cardinals Starting QB or Is He?

by cgolden on Jun 2, 2008 8:02 AM MDT in General Arizona Cardinals News

In what can only be described as a head-scratching move, Kurt Warner took most of the snaps with the first team during last Thursday's practice while Matt Leinart ran the second squad. It's the first time this offseason that Warner has taken snaps with the first unit but, Coach Whisenhunt was quick to downplay the move after practice. If this is a ploy to keep Matt sharp and remind him that he has stay on top of his game if he wants to stay on the field, I'm all for it.

There haven't been any rumblings about Leinart's play in practice or his work habits in the classroom. He's attended training sessions with the strength and conditioning coach and regularly watched tape with quarterbacks coach, Jeff Rutledge and offensive coordinator, Todd Haley. So this would seem to be just a not-so-subtle reminder that, even though Matt is the starter, Warner is also capable of leading this team. Anyone smell controversy or is this just a way to keep Matt on his toes?

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Controversy Much!

I remember watching closely as Arizona was up to pick in the ‘06 draft…..deep in my heart I knew they would take Leinart but I was hoping that Cutler’s name would be called (I just like that guy!) With the opening of a new stadium and seats to fill, Rod and crew must have been thinking “pretty boy QB, with some tangibles and tons of intangibles, a def. seat filler…the future face of the franchise.” But, I knew otherwise….Scottsdale is a mini LA, Matt has so many temptations here, and it seems as though he constantly falls for them. But considering that AZ had the coaching change (new plays to learn and new schemes to memorize) I’m giving homeboy one last season to show at least SOME signs of skill…but my faith is VERY sketch in his abilities and I’m able to rest ONLY because I know that Warner is steading close by! Side note, I think Matt would be a bit less injury prone if he spent more time with John Lott and less time kegging it up with minors!

Rhonnie.F
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by Rhonnie.F on Jun 2, 2008 10:55 PM MDT reply actions

Welcome to ROTB

I think that’s kind of where we all are right now. I’m cautiously optimistic that he can improve in his second year under Whiz and Haley, but if he doesn’t show some signs of being a player this year, it might be time to start scouting QBs again.

Revenge of the Birds

by cgolden on Jun 3, 2008 5:45 AM MDT up reply actions

I agree that this is Matt’s make or break year with the cards. Call me crazy, but he appeared better suited for a Denny Green offense than with Whis last season. Hopefully, it was just a sophomore slump, and he picks up the system quickly this year. Another multi-game or season ending injury in a 3rd consecutive season for me would be another sign to look elsewhere.

On that thought, as much as I would like to see Matt develop next season, the Cardinals need to start very strong to have any shot at reaching the playoffs or even breaking .500. After reviewing the schedule, a minimum 4-2 start going into the bye week is critical to build momentum for what appears to be a difficult second half. IMO thats not very likely with Matt under the gun. I guess I’m torn between the win now vs. develop an unproven QB argument.

by AJ BirdWatcher on Jun 3, 2008 7:09 AM MDT reply actions

well said

An early start will be critical to a playoff season. 4-2 heading into the bye week would be a realistic goal and they could/should jump out of the bye week with three more wins (CAR,STL, SF). They’ll need that kind of quick start b/c the stretch run is considerably more difficult with Giants, Eagles, Vikings, Patriots as well as both Seahawks games.

Revenge of the Birds

by cgolden on Jun 3, 2008 7:45 AM MDT up reply actions