After a very impressive victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars yesterday, the defending NFC champs are back. Their defense was already playing well, and the offense has finally found their rhythm. Many players stepped up and it might be possible that week one was an actual wake up call for this team. Before we fully move on from week one, let's congratulate Gerald Hayes for winning the coveted ROTB Cardinal of the week award for his week one performance, by gather 133 votes. As far as this week, there's several players that were involved in the victory. Here is the list of nominees.
Kurt Warner - Warner redeemed himself by nearly throwing a perfect game. He tied a consecutive pass streak with 15, and broke the NFL record for completion percentage at 92.3. Warner looked more poised in the pocket, and found several receivers that he had trouble finding in week one.
Tim Hightower - On the list again this week, Hightower made his mark in the rushing category, as he ran for 72 yards on 15 carries with one touchdown. Hightower was a nice change of pace to Beanie Wells, and looked solid with his pass protection.
Antrel Rolle - Although Rolle struggled at times on punt return, he shined on one particular play. After a field goal was blocked in the first half, Rolle was able to return the block 83 yards for a touchdown. While it didn't officially put the game away, it did deflate both the crowd and the Jaguars.
Calais Campbell - Part 2 of the blocked field goal goes to Campbell. Being 6'8" has it's advantages, and it showed when he reached up to block the field goal. Campbell has really come on this year and has proved that he should start at end.
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie - DRC played solid yesterday, virtually limiting the receivers that he lined up against. He did blow a key tackle for a score, but redeemed himself by putting the game away with an interception in the fourth quarter. He also forced a fumble that was recovered by Adrian Wilson. Bryant McFadden should also get credit for playing shut down all game.
While the team played great as a whole yesterday, nobody stood out to me as much as these five. But as all Cardinal of the week nominees go, if you feel somebody should be added, just post who and why in the comments section and I'll put them up.