Arizona Cardinals Getting Healthy For Game Against New York Giants

Last week's loss to the Seattle Seahawks can be attributed in part to the health of the team, as two key offensive players were injured -- Beanie Wells and LaRod Stephens-Howling. Without the two of them, the team was forced to use Chester Taylor and Alfonso Smith in the running game. Smith did okay, but Taylor looked lost. 

During Thursday's practice, a few players were upgraded on the injury report.

Beanie Wells was able to "open it up" a little bit and took an important step towards playing on Sunday. He talks as if he knows he is gong to play. That will be a big boost to the offense, who was miserable in third down and short last week. 

LSH practiced fully for the first time since getting hurt against the Carolina Panthers in Week 1. His return will help the offense as he is the number two running back and is the back they bring in and move around in formations. His absence on special teams was mitigated a bit by A.J. Jefferson, who did a fine job at returning kicks in "Hyphen's" absebce. 

Todd Heap (rib) also practiced fully. Fellow tight end Jim Dray did not practice. His pectoral muscle is still a problem.

For the Giants, Osi Umenyiora practiced, but receiver Hakeen Nicks was pulled out of practice because of an injury. WR Mario Manningham was limited and was cleared to practice. It is hoped that he plays on Sunday. 

Justin Tuck is also limited, so it could work out that the Cards miss both Osi and Tuck. They would not complain about that at all.

With a Giants team coming off a big win over the division rival Philadelphia Eagles, it is good to have the team getting healthy. They are going to need a full contingency of contributors if they expect to fend of the the G-Men.