Cardinals Cover 2

Ep. 878 - The grades are in. So, how do the experts feel GM Monti Ossenfort did with his selections in the 2025 NFL Draft? Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss some of what has been written since the end of the draft on Saturday. A lot of the words written has focused on the Cardinals' first three picks: DT Walter Nolen III, CB Will Johnson, and Edge Jordan Burch. In total, Ossenfort made seven picks, six on the defensive side of the ball, which, depending on what you read, received either an ‘A' or ‘B' grade. Also, Craig and Zach go over the six rookie free agents signed on Monday. Three of the six were offensive lineman, including Josh Fryar out of Ohio State, where his position coach was current Cardinals offensive line coach Justin Frye.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 877 - Four picks on Saturday. Seven picks overall. Nearly every pick, six, went towards the defensive side of the ball. Yes, the real winner of the 2025 NFL Draft is defensive coordinator Nick Rallis; so many new toys to play with, and don't forget about all the defensive additions in free agency. Craig Grialou, Dani Sureck and Paul Calvisi – it's another Cover 3 edition – talk about the most recent selections: Ohio State inside linebacker Cody Simon (fourth round, 115th overall), Ohio State cornerback Denzel Ward (fifth round, 174th overall), Texas offensive lineman Hayden Conner (sixth round, 211th overall), and Nevada safety Kitan Crawford (seventh round, 225th overall). Also, the three discuss what GM Monti Ossenfort and assistant GM Dave Sears had to say about the seven-player draft class.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 876 – On Friday, the Cardinals doubled down on defense in the 2025 NFL Draft. Again, are we surprised? OK, maybe a little, but defense has been the team's MO all offseason. Craig Grialou, Dani Sureck and Paul Calvisi – call it Cover 3 – talk about the selections of Michigan cornerback Will Johnson (second round, 47th overall pick) and Oregon Edge rusher Jordan Burch (third round, 78th overall pick). For those keeping track, that's three defensive players in the first three rounds. Also, what did GM Monti Ossenfort and head coach Jonathan Gannon have to say about Johnson and Burch, why they were the picks; why Monti didn't decide to trade down despite offers; and JG explains why Walter Nolen III is already off to a great start.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 875 – As Paul Calvisi likes to say, players know players. So, why don't we get a players' perspective on Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen III. And it makes sense to hear from a defensive player, right? Well, for the first time in this show's history, Adrian Wilson stops by. That's right, Cardinals legend and Ring of Honor member Adrian Wilson joins Calvisi and Craig Grialou. Exactly what are the Cardinals getting in Nolen, who was the 16th pick on night one of the 2025 NFL Draft? What type of player is the 6-foot-4, 296-pound defensive lineman? How will Nolen benefit from a loaded d-line room and veterans like Calais Campbell and Dalvin Tomlinson? A-Dub answers all that and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 874 – Why was Walter Nolen III the selection with the 16th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft? In a word, disruptive. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman are back to further discuss the defensive tackle out of Ole Miss. First, they are joined by former Cardinals linebacker Rob Fredrickson; why he likes the addition, what it means for the defense. Later, Craig and Zach are joined by Dani Sureck; call it Cover 3 for the rest of the show. Dani gives her thoughts on Nolen; why the pick made so much sense, how Nolen fits inside a crowded defensive line room. Also, Dani shares her conversations with GM Monti Ossenfort and head coach Jonathan Gannon; both of whom she spoke with immediately after Nolen was announced as the pick by the Commissioner.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 873 - With the 16th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals select: Walter Nolen III, defensive tackle, Ole Miss. Really not a surprise. The Cardinals have prioritized defense for much of the offseason, starting with free agency and again here with their first-round pick. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman react in real time just moments after Nolen was selected and held a conference call with local reporters. The guys explain why they like the pick; what Nolen had to say about joining the Cardinals; what some of the draft analysts thought about Nolen heading into the draft; and what this now means for what is a very loaded defensive line room, which is not a bad thing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 872 - Everyone is familiar with the Swedish rock band Europe, right? No? Well, everyone is - or should be - familiar with “The Final Countdown,” their one and only hit song. Heck, even Zach Gershman knows the music; and after humming a few bars, he and Craig Grialou have one final conversation about the 2025 NFL Draft. What do the latest mock drafts say? Who's been mocked to the Cardinals at 16 the most? Plus, the two give their own thoughts on what direction they think the team should go in the first round. Also, players are back in the building; the offseason strength and conditioning program is underway. And on Day 1, we heard from Paris Johnson Jr., Michael Wilson and Garrett Williams.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 871 - Three days, Bird Gang. Three days until the start of the 2025 NFL Draft. It's been a long wait, and now that wait is just about over. So, what's the latest buzz? What is the latest talk, not only league-wide but focused on the Arizona Cardinals? Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi discuss what they've heard, what they've read; what positions make the most sense with the 16th overall pick. Also, the two examine the list of draft prospects brought in for 30 visits, what possibly can be learned from those reported trips to the team's facility; and might the Cardinals have a coaching staff advantage when it comes to evaluating draft prospects. First though, Craig and Paul light the Dortch; they talk about Greg Dortch signing his one-year tender.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 870 – It's become an annual spring tradition: the pre-draft press conference. GMs, and often head coaches, meet with the media and answer questions ahead of the NFL Draft. A lot of words are spoken, but not a lot is said. To put it another way, no one is going to tip their hand or show their cards. Everything is kept very close to the vest. (Have we used enough idioms?!) Still, that doesn't stop people, including Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck, from trying to read between the lines. Will Monti Ossenfort stick-and-pick at 16? Trade down? Trade up? All options appear to be on the table. All positions, or most positions, seem to be on the table with that first-round selection regardless of what the team has done in free agency. In other words, stay tuned.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 869 - Another day, another day closer to the NFL Draft. Many draft experts, including multiple on this show, have raved about the depth at defensive line in this year's class. But, with the additions of Dalvin Tomlinson and Calais Campbell, will the Cardinals target a different position in the first round? Dani Sureck and Zach Gershman discuss all the possibilities. Could it be an offensive lineman? Cornerback? Could it even be a wide receiver at pick 16? Plus, the two talk about what Trey McBride's contract extension says about the organization and how Monti Ossenfort and Jonathan Gannon value their own players.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 868 – Cardinals tight end Trey McBride joins Paul Calvisi and Darren Urban to discuss his new four-year contract extension that keeps him signed through the 2029 season. McBride talks about what he was doing when he got the news from his agents, what it's like to be the NFL's highest-paid tight end, his future development and the upside of the Cardinals offense.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 867 - Six picks. One in each of the first five rounds. The Cardinals don't have nearly the draft capital as they did a year ago. Still, GM Monti Ossenfort should be able to find some solid players, starters even despite the lack of a lot of star power in the 2025 NFL Draft. That's how Paige Dimakos of The Draft Network sized up the draft when she joined the show from the Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. In addition to the conversation with Dimakos, Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck look at a couple of more mock drafts, ones that target the line of scrimmage but on the offensive side, and discuss why defensive tackle remains in play at pick 16 even after the addition of Calais Campbell.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 866 - It may be April Fools' Day but this is no joke. Defensive lineman Calais Campbell, one of the most popular players in modern Cardinals history, is returning to Arizona on a one-year deal. Paul Calvisi and Dani Sureck gather for an impromptu pod to share memories of Calais and forecast what he can mean for the 2025 Cardinals both on and off the field. Entering his 18th NFL season, Campbell is a six-time Pro Bowl selection and has earned many off-field honors including the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 865 - Offensive line. Defensive line. Cornerback. What about wide receiver? With the offseason moves he's made already, GM Monti Ossenfort can go a number of different directions with the 16th overall pick. And as of now, he has six total picks to work with in the 2025 NFL Draft. So, what positions should be targeted with those selections? Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi have some suggestions, and they look at a handful of the recent mock drafts to gain a better idea of what the experts think. Also, the league is proposing rule changes for the upcoming season. Craig and Paul weigh in on banning the ‘Tush Push,' amending the current playoff seeding format, and the dynamic kickoff among other possible changes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 864 - When you have a franchise quarterback, then you do everything in your power to surround him with talent; and not just on offense but on both sides of the ball. The Cardinals have their franchise quarterback in Kyler Murray, so build around him according to Cynthia Frelund and Marc Ross from the NFL Network. Frelund, an analytics expert, and Ross, a former front office executive, joined both Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck from the Scouting Combine last month in Indianapolis. In addition to QB1, the conversations with the two included what positions the Cardinals should focus on in the draft and just how “wide open” they believe the NFC West is in 2025.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 863 - It started with Josh Sweat. It continued with Dalvin Tomlinson. And let's not forget about the return of Baron Browning. The Cardinals made the defensive front a priority this offseason. And for good reason, based on last season. Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi discuss the investment the team has made at both defensive line and outside linebacker. That dovetails into a conversation about what to do with the 16th pick. Might the Cardinals bypass the defensive front with their first-round draft pick? Look to select a cornerback? What about an offensive lineman? The guys have fun with the latest round of mock drafts, because it is after all a Mock Draft Monday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 862 - Yes, Josh Sweat and Dalvin Tomlinson are the two big-name free-agent additions. There was a third defensive player who received a multi-year contract from the Cardinals early in free agency and his name is Akeem Davis-Gaither, or ADG. He's someone who took advantage of an opportunity late last season with the Cincinnati Bengals, and he hopes to do the same here in Arizona. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman hear from ADG, who sat down with Zach in the TV studio. Zach also had the chance to interview Sweat, Tomlinson and Jacoby Brissett while they were in town; parts of those conversations are played on the show as we get to know the new names and the new faces on the team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 861 - The regular season doesn't start for another six months. That said, GM Monti Ossenfort is big on being able to go into the draft without having to select a position of need; go with the best player available regardless of where they play. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck - after a week off, Dani is back - discuss whether that's what's been accomplished after the first week of free agency. Are there still positions where the Cardinals might want to address; what about guard, specifically right guard; is a veteran or speed wide receiver needed; and what are we to make of last week's visit by veteran cornerback Asante Samuel Jr.? Also, if you haven't heard, Marvin Harrison Jr.'s No. 18 jersey is now available.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 860 - Don't let the big smile fool you, Bird Gang. Dalvin Tomlinson is here to be a “disruptive” force on the line of scrimmage as he told both Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi following his introductory press conference on Friday. At 6-foot-3 and 325 pounds, the Cardinals new defensive lineman, yes, is a rather imposing figure. Tomlinson joined Craig and Paul in studio to talk about his “whirlwind” week; why he signed with the Cardinals; his pairing with Josh Sweat; and what he hopes to teach a young Darius Robinson. Also, Craig and Paul discuss the other two signings: quarterback Jacoby Brissett and wide receiver Simi Fehoko, the reported addition of offensive lineman Jake Curhan, what other roster moves might be next, and perhaps the biggest news of the week: Marvin Harrison Jr. jerseys are now available.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 859 - A mid-season addition a year ago, Baron Browning had a choice to make this offseason. And he chose to remain in Arizona. Why? He explained to both Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi when he joined the two in studio following his re-introductory press conference on Wednesday. Browning looks back at his eight games with the Cardinals in 2024; talks about the challenge of joining a new team in the middle of the season and who he leaned on when he arrived; why he believes he's a three-down outside linebacker; and gives his thoughts on the recent addition to his position room, Josh Sweat. Also, Craig and Paul discuss the return of wide receiver Zay Jones as well as offer their best to Roy Lopez and Khyiris Tonga, a pair of defensive linemen who have signed elsewhere in free agency.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 858 - Teams can sign their own free agents at any time. And that's exactly what the Cardinals have done with a handful of players. So, while Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman await the official word on the reported signing of pass rusher Josh Sweat, the guys discuss the return of offensive linemen Evan Brown and Kelvin Beachum, outside linebacker Baron Browning plus two key pieces on special teams, Joey Blount and Aaron Brewer; all were high on the list of players Craig and Zach wanted to see back in a Cardinals uniform. Also, Zach's been busy. He's got a great story on Starling Thomas' relationship with his mother, and he's been keeping track of all the mock drafts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 857 - Whether it's defensive end, defensive tackle or edge rusher - all perceived needs, by the way - the Cardinals will be able to find a player who can make an impact right away in this year's draft. At least that's the feeling from Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus, their lead NFL Draft analyst, who joined both Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck from the Scouting Combine last week in Indianapolis. Sikkema, like most, is very high on the depth of the defensive line class. In addition to the draft, the conversation with Sikkema included his thoughts on last year's draft class and players like Max Melton and Dadrion Taylor-Demerson as well as Trey Benson who Sikkema believes can be part of “a great 1-2 duo” with James Conner.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 856 - Successful teams are good at the line of scrimmage. That's no surprise. It's also not a surprise that many believe the Cardinals will be active in trying to add to their offensive and defensive lines this offseason, and more specifically, during the 2025 NFL Draft. That was the focus of a couple of different conversations Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck had while at the Scouting Combine in Indianapolis last week. First, they chatted with NFL Network Host Rhett Lewis, who raved about the hire of Justin Frye, a college teammate of his at Indiana. Then, Lance Zierlein, NFL Network Draft Analyst, stopped by to discuss Paris Johnson Jr. Darius Robinson, and why targeting the defensive front with the 16th pick makes the most sense.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 855 - In need of a defensive lineman? Or two? Want to upgrade the talent in the room? Add depth? Well, then you're in luck because the 2025 NFL Draft is loaded with prospects who can help a team, and maybe even help right away. At least that's the consensus from ESPN Draft Analysts Matt Miller and Jordan Reid, who joined both Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck from the Scouting Combine last week in Indianapolis. In addition to hearing from Miller and Reid in separate interviews, Craig and Dani shout-out Ron Wolfley. He announced on Friday that he's stepping down as the Cardinals radio analyst after 20 years in the booth. It's a loss, it's a big loss. But good for Wolf.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 854 - Twice last season Charles Davis watched the Cardinals play from the network TV booth at State Farm Stadium. He was on the CBS call for a win against the Chicago Bears in Week 9 and a loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 14. What did he see, what did he like, what does he feel is needed for the Cardinals to take the next step in Year 3 of GM Monti Ossenfort and head coach Jonathan Gannon? Davis joined Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck from the 2025 Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, where he'll be part of the NFL Network's coverage. Davis also gave his thoughts on Kyler Murray, Marvin Harrison Jr., and a secondary that is no longer just all about Budda Baker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 853 - More than 300 draft prospects are in Indianapolis this week for the 2025 Scouting Combine. So how does one separate themself within their position group? This week can help, but it always comes back to the film. And what do teams look at when watching the tape? For Dane Brugler of The Athletic, it's more about their traits than how productive they were; in other words, don't focus solely on a player's statistics. Brugler joined Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck from Indy to discuss the combine, the draft and what positions are the deepest, and where the Cardinals are positioned with their first-round pick; plus, a look back at last year's draft class of the Cardinals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 852 - A year ago, the Cardinals picked fourth in the NFL Draft. This year, it's 16. The good news is that means the Cardinals had a better year than the season before. The bad news is they'll miss out on some of the top-tier college prospects. Fret not, though, Bird Gang. The Cardinals are still in a good spot to select a quality player, especially if the choice is a defensive player, according to NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah, who joined Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck from Indianapolis, site of the 2025 Scouting Combine. In addition to the draft, the conversation with Jeremiah included his thoughts on what he saw from the Cardinals in 2024. As the radio analyst for the Los Angeles Chargers, Jeremiah was on the call when the Chargers visited State Farm Stadium in Week 7.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 851 - Sounds familiar, right? Only one week on the job and the new Cardinals offensive line coach is already sounding like Jonathan Gannon. Why Justin Frye was hired became clear less than three minutes into his introductory press conference on Wednesday. Frye and Gannon share a common vision about the game of football. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss what they heard from Frye, his thoughts on the roster, his familiarity with a handful of players, and what it takes to block for a quarterback like Kyler Murray. Also, Daniel Jeremiah released his latest mock draft. Who does he have the Cardinals selecting with the 16th overall pick this time? And Zach has been busy with free-agent primers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 850 - One month. We are one month away from the start of the free agency signing period. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman examine the names and look at the position groups that may see the most change. (Spoiler alert: The line of scrimmage and defensive front-seven feature the most players who potentially might hit the open market.) Also, the guys discuss some of the news and headlines that maybe got lost or overshadowed because of the Super Bowl; from what's going on within the NFC West to a couple of upcoming opponents in 2025 plus exactly what is the future of Aaron Rodgers and three of the biggest names who rush the quarterback: Myles Garrett, Maxx Crosby, and Micah Parsons.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 849 - It's the one big takeaway from Super Bowl 59: games are won or lost at the line of scrimmage. And, really, that's nothing new. All 32 teams - not just the Philadelphia Eagles - try to win the line of scrimmage. No, what the Eagles showed is why teams prioritize (or should) the offensive and defensive lines whether that's in free agency or the draft. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck look at what the Cardinals have at both spots and then discuss the decisions needed to be made by the front office this offseason. Also, they give their thoughts on the game, focusing on just how dominate the Eagles were against the Kansas City Chiefs, and might international travel be in the Cardinals' future?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 848 - What can the Cardinals learn when looking at the two Super Bowl participants? Specifically, in terms of the rosters of both the Chiefs and Eagles? Maybe the biggest lesson is this: The best path to success, and really sustained success, is through the draft. Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi share the numbers to back up what fans have repeatedly heard from NFL GMs, including Monti Ossenfort, on just how important the NFL Draft is to building a team. Also, the guys discuss what they think will happen in Super Bowl 59, and they predict who will walk away winners during NFL Honors. FYI, Budda Baker and Trey McBride are finalists for the Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award and Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, respectively.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 847 - Without Budda and Trey who knows if the NFC would've been able to beat the AFC. Okay, maybe that's overstating things a bit. Still, Budda and Trey each had a hand in not only Sunday's game but also Thursday's competitions. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman look back at what was a successful week in Orlando for the two Cardinals teammates. Also, the guys discuss the loss of offensive line coach Klayton Adams to the Dallas Cowboys; that is now official. What is not yet official - and right now only mentioned - is Adams' replacement and a reported new defensive line coach. Plus, it is Super Bowl week, and the week began with some major news out of Cleveland, which potentially could affect the Cardinals. Hmm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 846 - Everyone knows the big names. The stars. They are the ones who get all the attention. But to be a successful team, it takes more than a couple of all-pros or pro bowlers. So, with that in mind, Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck discuss those Cardinals players, whether on offense or defense, who might've flown under the radar, but who certainly deserve to be praised based on their performance this season. Also, what's the latest on perhaps another change to the coaching staff; why fans should pay attention to the two college all-star games this week; and, oh yeah, don't forget about the Pro Bowl - it's another chance to see both Budda Baker and Trey McBride in action.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 845 - And with the 16th overall pick, the Arizona Cardinals select (fill in the blank). Well, we'll know soon enough. Officially, in three months. Unofficially, let the speculation begin. In other words, time to mock draft. ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. and NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah, two of the prominent voices this time of year, released their first mock drafts. Craig Grialou and Darren Urban, who loves his mock drafts, breakdown who was mocked to the Cardinals. Also, the guys discuss the Dallas Cowboys' reported interest in offensive line coach Klayton Adams, the rise within the front office ranks of former Cardinals wide receiver (and Scottsdale Chaparral high alum) Darren Mougey, as well as their takeaways from Championship Sunday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 844 - It's something Jonathan Gannon says all the time. And based on what we saw during the divisional round of the playoffs, the head coach is right. The ball matters. Specifically, taking the ball away and protecting the ball. Turnover margin is important, and it's a big reason for the success of the four teams - Commanders, Eagles, Bills, and Chiefs - remaining in the postseason. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss how the Cardinals fared in 2024 regarding takeaways and giveaways and how they might improve their numbers. Also, the guys give their thoughts on Championship Sunday, Drew Petzing not landing the Bears head coaching job and review the season's top plays; both offense, defense and special teams.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 843 - Let's start with the most important question: How is everyone's German? That's right. German. There is a chance, based on an announcement from the league earlier on Wednesday, that the Cardinals play a regular season game in Berlin. Again, a chance. Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi are both big fans of a potential trip to Germany. They discuss why the Cardinals would be an attractive option. They then dive into the offseason, one that will be full of questions. They pick out some of the biggest questions they have that they hope GM Monti Ossenfort provides an answer; from the interior of the offensive line, the wide receiver room, and, of course, the pass rush. Also, they look ahead to this weekend's Divisional Round of the playoffs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 842 - It's award season, and well, we didn't want to feel left out. It's time for the 2024 Cardinals Awards, as voted by our 13-person panel. Craig Grialou is joined by both Dani Sureck and Zach Gershman to break down the results. Some winners are more obvious than others; Offensive Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year, while not unanimous, did produce the most clear-cut choices. Other winners faced tougher competition, most notably Newcomer of the Year, Beyond the Box Score Player of the Year and Player of the Year. And as far as Most Valuable Cardinal? All three - Craig, Dani, and Zach - agree it's James Conner. Do you agree? Do you disagree? All results have been posted on azcardinals.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 841 - It's been three days since the regular season ended. So, yeah, the offseason has arrived. And after a brief conversation about Dani Sureck's cryptic post on social media Wednesday afternoon (really, a tease to some exciting new content), she and Craig Grialou discuss, what else, their biggest takeaways from 2024. More specifically, however, what did they learn from 2024; be it about a player, a position group or maybe something completely different. Plus, even though the Cardinals aren't participating in postseason football, Craig and Dani look ahead to the six playoff games scheduled for Wild Card Weekend. Is it the best two days - two-plus days - on the NFL calendar?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 840 - Beat a division foe. Sweep the season series. Send the fans home happy. That's what the Cardinals accomplished in Week 18. And no, the goal of making the playoffs was not reached, but a 47-24 win over the San Francisco 49ers is a decent consolation prize. Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi discuss what happened on Sunday; from Kyler Murray's four touchdown passes, the improved play of Marvin Harrison Jr., the career-year by Trey McBride to a defense that fought - literally in fact - and forced three takeaways. They guys also begin to look ahead to the offseason, what potential moves might be made; Kelvin Beachum's future with the team; and react to Drew Petzing reportedly being a candidate for the head coaching job with the Chicago Bears.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 839 - It is the last Football Friday of the 2024 season. So, how do you want to go out? How do you want to be remembered? With a win, of course. The Cardinals will look to do just that on Sunday. They host the San Francisco 49ers in the regular-season finale. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss why a win in Week 18 matters to the coaches and to the players, and why it should matter to the fans. Plus, as the guys have done all season, they head into enemy territory. Lindsey Pallares, team reporter for 49ers.com, joins the show. The 49ers are coming off a short week; they're banged up; and they'll be quarterbacked by a familiar face, Joshua Dobbs, who was QB1 for eight games just last season as the Cardinals waited for the return of a healthy Kyler Murray.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 838 - On this first day of 2025, the focus remains on 2024, at least in terms of the football season. Yes, the calendar has flipped to the *new* year, but there remains one more game to be played before the *new* season can be discussed. With that said, however, Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck talk about what they'd like to see in the regular-season finale that may carryover to next season, i.e., the chemistry between Kyler Murray and his wide receivers (namely Marvin Harrison Jr.). Also, Craig and Dani react to the breaking news that James Conner will not play against the San Francisco 49ers, and what that may mean for Michael Carter and the rest of the running back room. Plus, will the Cardinals see a familiar face as QB1 for the Niners? Will it be Joshua Dobbs against his former team?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 837 - Heart-breaking. There's no other way to describe it. The win was there until it wasn't. And that's been the story of the Arizona Cardinals' season more times than not in 2024. Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi, aka Paulie Play-By-Play, look back at the 13-9 loss on Saturday night in Los Angeles. For much of the game, the offense looked good; in fact, the numbers said as much. Defensively, the same thing. The Cardinals played well enough to win, but the only thing that matters in sports is did you score more points than your opponent. The Cardinals did not. The guys discuss everything. Plus, Paul hands out his weekly Angry Bird Award; and this week, it goes to a player who stepped up his game in the absence of his teammate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. 836 - So, the stakes are not as high as we all had hoped, but there is still plenty on the line coming up on Saturday night in Los Angeles. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman look ahead to the Week 17 matchup against the Rams, an opponent the Cardinals have not seen since early September. A lot has changed since then, which is discussed when Jourdan Rodrigue joins the show, as she did ahead of Week 2. Rodrigue covers the Rams for The Athletic. Before that conversation, though, Craig and Zach have a conversation about where the Cardinals are at, coming off the loss at Carolina that eliminated them from playoff contention; what can still be accomplished over the final two games; plus, who is and who isn't available to play this weekend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.