Bird Droppings: Arizona Cardinals News and Links for Gameday Thursday

The Arizona Cardinals take on the San Francisco 49ers and look to get back to their winning ways.

Let's take a look at some of the best stories from around the web.

Dealing Cards: Arians optimistic Palmer can return next week
Carson Palmer won't play Thursday night vs. San Francisco, but Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians feels pretty good that the veteran will miss only one game.

Situational football is limiting Arizona Cardinals on offense, defense - Arizona Cardinals Blog- ESPN
Third down, the red zone and short yardage all have given the Cardinals fits. "That's where the games are won or lost," OC Harold Goodwin says.

Cardinals' Carson Palmer isn't the only vet QB to start poorly
Carson Palmer isn't alone as a proven quarterback struggling to begin 2016.

Analytics point to problems with Arizona Cardinals offense | Cards Wire
Analytics seem to point to what many of us feared: the Cardinals offense was at fault for Sunday's loss.

Cardinals LB Markus Golden, Chandler Jones ‘hunting’ QBs
Cardinals linebackers Chandler Jones and Markus Golden have been doing a good job of getting after opposing QBs.

Short week helps Arizona Cardinals get over Rams loss, 1-3 start - Arizona Cardinals Blog- ESPN
The Cardinals have no time to dwell on Sunday's mistakes as they prepare for the 49ers on Thursday night.

Cardinals to start Drew Stanton vs. 49ers, Carson Palmer out
Drew Stanton will start at quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals against the San Francisco 49ers as Carson Palmer has been ruled out due to a concussion.

Carson Palmer Won't Play Against The 49ers
Notes: Stanton in; Home runs limited; Simon may play more; Fells, Stinson out.

News from the Enemy:

Jim O’Neil discusses how defense will adjust to injuries, recent struggles - Niners Nation
The 49ers defensive coordinator discussed what the team needs to do given its struggles and the loss of NaVorro Bowman. We have a full transcript, courtesy of 49ers PR. You can watch video here.