Most of the Cardinal news around the net is focused on Q, but we'll try and dance around that wildfire and see what else they're talking about:
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Tim Hightower gets some national love as Yahoo Fantasy takes a look at his value for potential fantasy owners. It's premature for even the biggest Cardinal-homer to consider him a legitimate fantasy option, but if you've already got Edge, he's a decent handcuff option.
- The official site takes a look at Early Doucet and the uphill battle that he's facing this season. His injured hamstring has kept him out the past two weeks and basically removed his name from the competition for third receiver, but he's still fighting to make an impact in some capacity this season. He has returned to practice this season and should see his first action of the preseason this Saturday.
- Not only has Whiz not decided on a starting quarterback but he told media yesterday that he may wait until the opener to name his guy. He hinted that he might wait until the last minute to name his starter so that the Niners have to prepare for both quarterbacks. I can't say that I'm particulary thrilled about that plan but I understand the strategy. As for playing time on Saturday, Leinart will start and Warner will come in some time in the second quarter (basically reversed roles from the Chiefs game).
- The battle at right guard seems to be tightening as Elton Brown could get some reps with the first team this Saturday. Deuce Lutui's inconsistency continues to aggravate the coaching staff and his starting job now hangs in the balance.
- High ankle sprains are starting to plague the Cardinals and Antrel Rolle and Ben Patrick are both sidelined for at least this week and possibly next week. Considering that Rolle's only played two series at safety so far this preseason, it leaves another question mark heading into the regular season. Hopefully they can both make it back by the final preseason game but at this point, that's no guarantee.