Cardinals vs. Lions: More on Patrick Peterson vs Calvin Johnson

Tyler Nickel previewed the matchup between Detroit Lions receiver Calvin Johnson and Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson. It has been talked about a lot over the last couple of days. I also asked Pride Of Detroit's Sean Yuille about the matchup.

Statistically, this could be the WR/CB battle of the season. Johnson is on pace to break the record for receiving yards in a season and Peterson is developing into one of the best corners in the league.

Peterson has allowed a total of 426 yards receiving on the year. He is getting targeted less, which is a testament to the respect he is getting. Last season he was thrown at 113 times -- one of the highest numbers in the league. It has been 67 times through 14 weeks this year.

However, Yuille doesn't think that Peterson will shut down Johnson.

I expect Johnson to get at least 100 yards on Sunday. I certainly wouldn't be surprised if he's shut out of the end zone, but for the last month or so, Johnson has been pretty unstoppable. He is now in position to break Jerry Rice's single-season receiving record, and I don't see Peterson shutting him down very much on Sunday.

Peterson made some notable quotes, saying he feels he is the best at his position. His coaches don't have a problem with it.

Said Ray Horton, according to the official team page,

"Patrick is ready for this guy," Horton said. "It's probably a statement game for Patrick. It will be an interesting spotlight on him this week. ... It's important for him to prove his elite status."

Horton also has no problem with Peterson talking in public. "They're the ones that have to back it up. I encourage them to be bold and assertive. If he believes that, and if he wants to say that, I am sure everyone else will try to co-sign that check for him."

I think that if Johnson gets 100+ yards, it will not be while Peterson is covering him. Peterson will keep him at bay down the field.

We will see what happens tomorrow.

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