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Minicamp is here, and so are all the players, and Craig Grialou, Darren Urban and Dani Sureck have lots to talk about. That includes the arrivals of Jacoby Brissett and Josh Sweat to mandatory work, Brissett's situation heading into training camp, our first mailbag entry on the podcast, needing a full running back room, Trey McBride's continuing evolution, Getting Cultured with Dani, Nick Rallis' obsession with player development, Michael Wilson's burgeoning friendship with Larry Fitzgerald, and Craig's airport issues.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Minicamp is here, and so are all the players, and Craig Grialou, Darren Urban and Dani Sureck have lots to talk about. That includes the arrivals of Jacoby Brissett and Josh Sweat to mandatory work, Brissett's situation heading into training camp, our first mailbag entry on the podcast, needing a full running back room, Trey McBride's continuing evolution, Getting Cultured with Dani, Nick Rallis' obsession with player development, Michael Wilson's burgeoning friendship with Larry Fitzgerald, and Craig's airport issues.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The last week of the offseason program is here as the Cardinals begin mandatory minicamp. Craig Grialou, Zach Gershman, and former Cardinals linebacker Rob Fredrickson discuss the quarterback room with Jacoby Brissett back in the building. The guys also discuss Arizona's deep running back room, led by James Conner, Tyler Allgeier, and rookie Jeremiyah Love, and how a more balanced, physical attack could help take pressure off the passing game. On the defensive side, the crew examines Nick Rallis' plans for improvement after a difficult finish to last season, the value of continuity within the system, and how new voices on the coaching staff could help elevate the unit. Plus, a conversation about Cardinals players the guys want to see take the next step in 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The last week of the offseason program is here as the Cardinals begin mandatory minicamp. Craig Grialou, Zach Gershman, and former Cardinals linebacker Rob Fredrickson discuss the quarterback room with Jacoby Brissett back in the building. The guys also discuss Arizona's deep running back room, led by James Conner, Tyler Allgeier, and rookie Jeremiyah Love, and how a more balanced, physical attack could help take pressure off the passing game. On the defensive side, the crew examines Nick Rallis' plans for improvement after a difficult finish to last season, the value of continuity within the system, and how new voices on the coaching staff could help elevate the unit. Plus, a conversation about Cardinals players the guys want to see take the next step in 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 194 - Jesús Quiñonez, Rolando Cantú e Irving Villanueva reaccionan a la llegada de Myles Garrett a la NFC West y analizan lo que significa para los Cardinals. Además, Marvin Harrison Jr. comparte las lecciones que le dejaron las lesiones de la temporada pasada, mientras Dadrion "Rabbit" Taylor-Demerson habla sobre la renovada defensiva de Nick Rallis. También repasamos las últimas observaciones de OTA's antes del minicamp obligatorio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dante Stills joins Wolf and Luke to discuss how it feels to have Nick Rallis back for another season and why he is his harshest critic.
Ep. 194 - Jesús Quiñonez, Rolando Cantú e Irving Villanueva reaccionan a la llegada de Myles Garrett a la NFC West y analizan lo que significa para los Cardinals. Además, Marvin Harrison Jr. comparte las lecciones que le dejaron las lesiones de la temporada pasada, mientras Dadrion "Rabbit" Taylor-Demerson habla sobre la renovada defensiva de Nick Rallis. También repasamos las últimas observaciones de OTA's antes del minicamp obligatorio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 763 - With the NFL Draft two weeks away, Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley break down the latest mock draft buzz surrounding the Arizona Cardinals and GM Monti Ossenfort's options at No. 3, including edge rushers, offensive linemen, and potential trade scenarios. They also discuss impressions of new head coach Mike LaFleur after his first team meeting, the Cardinals' chances for a defensive rebound under coordinator Nick Rallis, and the quarterback outlook with Jacoby Brissett in the room and draft prospects like Ty Simpson being a hot topic among NFL Draft pundits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 763 - With the NFL Draft two weeks away, Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley break down the latest mock draft buzz surrounding the Arizona Cardinals and GM Monti Ossenfort's options at No. 3, including edge rushers, offensive linemen, and potential trade scenarios. They also discuss impressions of new head coach Mike LaFleur after his first team meeting, the Cardinals' chances for a defensive rebound under coordinator Nick Rallis, and the quarterback outlook with Jacoby Brissett in the room and draft prospects like Ty Simpson being a hot topic among NFL Draft pundits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 994 - Day 1 is important. Day 1 is a reset. And for the Arizona Cardinals Day 1 also represented a new beginning. The Mike LaFleur era is officially underway. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss the start of the offseason strength and conditioning program; what were their takeaways listening to Hjalte Froholdt and Zaven Collins speak with reporters. Plus, Craig and Zach explain the reason LaFleur is so focused on the mechanics of the huddle, the chip that likely rests on Nick Rallis' shoulder, the idea behind better communication improving the overall defense, and with two weeks to go before the draft, is offensive line becoming less of an option at pick 3? Zach updates the Cardinals Mock Draft Tracker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 994 - Day 1 is important. Day 1 is a reset. And for the Arizona Cardinals Day 1 also represented a new beginning. The Mike LaFleur era is officially underway. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss the start of the offseason strength and conditioning program; what were their takeaways listening to Hjalte Froholdt and Zaven Collins speak with reporters. Plus, Craig and Zach explain the reason LaFleur is so focused on the mechanics of the huddle, the chip that likely rests on Nick Rallis' shoulder, the idea behind better communication improving the overall defense, and with two weeks to go before the draft, is offensive line becoming less of an option at pick 3? Zach updates the Cardinals Mock Draft Tracker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 762 - All eyes around the NFL world were focused on Phoenix, Arizona this week as the NFL held its Annual League Meetings in The Valley. Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley break down what Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur had to say about his offensive vision, Jacoby Brissett's potential as QB1, the importance of building a dominant offensive line, and how physicality could define the Cardinals' identity moving forward. Plus, the guys explore what Arizona's defense might look like this season under Nick Rallis, the value of Teryl Austin's addition to the coaching staff, league rule changes, and in the spirit of April Fools Day, we revisit some classic pranks pulled inside the radio booth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 762 - All eyes around the NFL world were focused on Phoenix, Arizona this week as the NFL held its Annual League Meetings in The Valley. Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley break down what Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur had to say about his offensive vision, Jacoby Brissett's potential as QB1, the importance of building a dominant offensive line, and how physicality could define the Cardinals' identity moving forward. Plus, the guys explore what Arizona's defense might look like this season under Nick Rallis, the value of Teryl Austin's addition to the coaching staff, league rule changes, and in the spirit of April Fools Day, we revisit some classic pranks pulled inside the radio booth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 992 - Happy April Fool's Day, Bird Gang. That said, neither Craig Grialou nor Dani Sureck are playing the fool on Wednesday's show. Instead, Craig and Dani continue to react to what Mike LaFleur had to say during his Q&A with reporters at the Annual League Meeting this week; LaFleur likes the experience both Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew bring to the quarterback room, believes Teryl Austin will be “a great asset” for him, Nick Rallis, and the defense overall plus LaFleur is looking forward to having players back in the building next week. Also, Craig and Dani update Paris Johnson Jr.'s rehab, another round of uniform number changes, and because it is April 1st, begin to promote the 2026 Draft Party at State Farm Stadium.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 992 - Happy April Fool's Day, Bird Gang. That said, neither Craig Grialou nor Dani Sureck are playing the fool on Wednesday's show. Instead, Craig and Dani continue to react to what Mike LaFleur had to say during his Q&A with reporters at the Annual League Meeting this week; LaFleur likes the experience both Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew bring to the quarterback room, believes Teryl Austin will be “a great asset” for him, Nick Rallis, and the defense overall plus LaFleur is looking forward to having players back in the building next week. Also, Craig and Dani update Paris Johnson Jr.'s rehab, another round of uniform number changes, and because it is April 1st, begin to promote the 2026 Draft Party at State Farm Stadium.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 988 - Among the many moves made during free agency almost half of the additions have come along the line of scrimmage, which shouldn't be a surprise to anyone based on last season's results. The two marquee names signed were Isaac Seumalo and Roy Lopez. Both recently sat down with Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi. For Seumalo, it was a chance to get back on the west coast, fill a need at left guard, team with Paris Johnson Jr., and help build a winner in Arizona. Meanwhile, for Lopez, who is about to become a first-time father, it was a chance to return home, fill a much-needed role inside, and reunite with several teammates as well as defensive coordinator Nick Rallis. Enjoy the conversations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 988 - Among the many moves made during free agency almost half of the additions have come along the line of scrimmage, which shouldn't be a surprise to anyone based on last season's results. The two marquee names signed were Isaac Seumalo and Roy Lopez. Both recently sat down with Craig Grialou and Paul Calvisi. For Seumalo, it was a chance to get back on the west coast, fill a need at left guard, team with Paris Johnson Jr., and help build a winner in Arizona. Meanwhile, for Lopez, who is about to become a first-time father, it was a chance to return home, fill a much-needed role inside, and reunite with several teammates as well as defensive coordinator Nick Rallis. Enjoy the conversations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 983 - Before the debate, there's news to discuss. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck talk about the future of Kyler Murray, who announced his departure ahead of reports he'll be released if not traded by the start of the new league year next week, and react to the announcement the Cardinals will play the Carolina Panthers in the Hall of Fame Game. Then it's back to Indianapolis, where Craig and Dani spoke with NFL Network Analysts Charles Davis and Cynthia Frelund; their thoughts on the Scouting Combine, whether O-line or D-line is the best option with the third overall pick, how they feel about new head coach Mike LaFleur, the decision to retain Nick Rallis, and the play of Trey McBride.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 983 - Before the debate, there's news to discuss. Craig Grialou and Dani Sureck talk about the future of Kyler Murray, who announced his departure ahead of reports he'll be released if not traded by the start of the new league year next week, and react to the announcement the Cardinals will play the Carolina Panthers in the Hall of Fame Game. Then it's back to Indianapolis, where Craig and Dani spoke with NFL Network Analysts Charles Davis and Cynthia Frelund; their thoughts on the Scouting Combine, whether O-line or D-line is the best option with the third overall pick, how they feel about new head coach Mike LaFleur, the decision to retain Nick Rallis, and the play of Trey McBride.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 756 - The future is coming into focus for the Arizona Cardinals, both on and off the field. Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley discuss the groundbreaking of the team's new performance center in Phoenix and what it signals about the franchise's long-term vision. They also dive into head coach Mike LaFleur's coordinator hires, exploring what Nathaniel Hackett's addition could mean for the offense and how continuity with Nick Rallis on defense might become an advantage for a first-year head coach. Plus, they examine how Michael Ghobrial's coaching style could shape special teams. New facilities, fresh direction and high expectations. We dig into what it all means.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 756 - The future is coming into focus for the Arizona Cardinals, both on and off the field. Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley discuss the groundbreaking of the team's new performance center in Phoenix and what it signals about the franchise's long-term vision. They also dive into head coach Mike LaFleur's coordinator hires, exploring what Nathaniel Hackett's addition could mean for the offense and how continuity with Nick Rallis on defense might become an advantage for a first-year head coach. Plus, they examine how Michael Ghobrial's coaching style could shape special teams. New facilities, fresh direction and high expectations. We dig into what it all means.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 978 - Two new coordinators and one familiar face were officially introduced Wednesday, as head coach Mike LaFleur presented his staff: Nathaniel Hackett (offensive coordinator), Nick Rallis (defensive coordinator), and Michael Ghobrial (special teams coordinator). Hackett and Ghobrial are new to the Cardinals, while Rallis will be entering his fourth season in charge of the defense. All three sounded enthusiastic. All three are eager to get to work. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss what they heard from each of the coordinators: Hackett is ready to serve as a sounding board for LaFleur, Rallis is grateful to be able to run it back after some self reflection, and Ghobrial believes “special teams is the purest form of football.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 180 - En esta edición 180 de La Tacleada Cardinals, Rolando Cantú e Irving Villanueva analizan las recientes adiciones al staff de coacheo de Mike LaFleur. Nathaniel Hackett y Michael Ghobrial llegan como nuevas caras al Desierto para fortalecer el proyecto del nuevo head coach. Por otro lado, el equipo apuesta por la continuidad en el costado defensivo del ovoide. Nick Rallis se mantiene como una pieza clave dentro del vestidor; Monti Ossenfort y la organización respaldan su visión, y ha logrado ganarse la confianza de LaFleur en esta nueva etapa de los Cardenales.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wolf and Paul Calvisi to discuss what the offense could look like with Nathaniel Hackett as the offensive coordinator, if the defense can be better with Nick Rallis this year, what the Arizona Cardinals could do in NFL free agency.
The Cardinals retained defensive coordinator Nick Rallis, and Jess and Seth talk about that, both the positive and the negative. They also go over the Cardinals' offseason needs on defense and on special teams.
Ep. 180 - En esta edición 180 de La Tacleada Cardinals, Rolando Cantú e Irving Villanueva analizan las recientes adiciones al staff de coacheo de Mike LaFleur. Nathaniel Hackett y Michael Ghobrial llegan como nuevas caras al Desierto para fortalecer el proyecto del nuevo head coach. Por otro lado, el equipo apuesta por la continuidad en el costado defensivo del ovoide. Nick Rallis se mantiene como una pieza clave dentro del vestidor; Monti Ossenfort y la organización respaldan su visión, y ha logrado ganarse la confianza de LaFleur en esta nueva etapa de los Cardenales.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 978 - Two new coordinators and one familiar face were officially introduced Wednesday, as head coach Mike LaFleur presented his staff: Nathaniel Hackett (offensive coordinator), Nick Rallis (defensive coordinator), and Michael Ghobrial (special teams coordinator). Hackett and Ghobrial are new to the Cardinals, while Rallis will be entering his fourth season in charge of the defense. All three sounded enthusiastic. All three are eager to get to work. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss what they heard from each of the coordinators: Hackett is ready to serve as a sounding board for LaFleur, Rallis is grateful to be able to run it back after some self reflection, and Ghobrial believes “special teams is the purest form of football.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is it time for mock drafts? Probably. Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Dani Sureck know draft season is coming, so our trio chat about what the world seems to think the Cardinals will do at 3 overall (at least right now), the upcoming Scouting Combine information incoming, Kyler Murray's future and NFL teams dealing with cap ramifications after player moves, a new Getting Cultured, the return of Nick Rallis as DC, Nathaniel Hackett as OC, how the roster can change, the emphasis on player development, sorting the running back room, Darren and Cardinals Climb, and breaking ground at the new training facility.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is it time for mock drafts? Probably. Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Dani Sureck know draft season is coming, so our trio chat about what the world seems to think the Cardinals will do at 3 overall (at least right now), the upcoming Scouting Combine information incoming, Kyler Murray's future and NFL teams dealing with cap ramifications after player moves, a new Getting Cultured, the return of Nick Rallis as DC, Nathaniel Hackett as OC, how the roster can change, the emphasis on player development, sorting the running back room, Darren and Cardinals Climb, and breaking ground at the new training facility.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Blake & Marcos discuss Nick Rallis returning as the team's defensive coordinator. Good? Bad? Ugly? Plus some new additions and retentions to the staff. Don't miss it!
Wolf and Luke react to the news that the Arizona Cardinals are keeping Nick Rallis as their defensive coordinator and discuss if Corbin Carroll could be back by opening day.
Tyler Drake joins Wolf and Luke to discuss the Arizona Cardinals keeping Nick Rallis as their defensive coordinator and what he thinks about the rest of the coaching staff that the Cardinals have hired so far.
Bickley and Tim Ring talk Diamondbacks, Cardinals, and NBA.
The Arizona Cardinals are bringing back a familiar face in defensive coordinator Nick Rallis. They didn't stop there, either, re-upping with OL coaches Justin Frye and Chris Cook on top of adding some outside hires. Tyler Drake and Lauren Koval give their thoughts on Arizona's latest batch of hirings and what the duo need to see out of Rallis and others in their return.
Ep. 963 - If you listen to either head coach Jonathan Gannon or defensive coordinator Nick Rallis, they both have been pleased with the season-long play of Darius Robinson. The stats, though, haven't always been there. Until Sunday. On Sunday, Robinson had arguably his best game of his career. Craig Grialou and Darren Urban - yes, we got @Cardschatter on the show - discuss what they saw, the impact Robinson made, and what that may mean for Robinson heading into next season, especially given the uncertain status of Walter Nolen III. Also, Craig and Darren talk about the challenge this week for cornerbacks Will Johnson and Denzel Burke, provide an update on Budda Baker, and explain maybe why the Cardinals have two kickers on the active roster.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 963 - If you listen to either head coach Jonathan Gannon or defensive coordinator Nick Rallis, they both have been pleased with the season-long play of Darius Robinson. The stats, though, haven't always been there. Until Sunday. On Sunday, Robinson had arguably his best game of his career. Craig Grialou and Darren Urban - yes, we got @Cardschatter on the show - discuss what they saw, the impact Robinson made, and what that may mean for Robinson heading into next season, especially given the uncertain status of Walter Nolen III. Also, Craig and Darren talk about the challenge this week for cornerbacks Will Johnson and Denzel Burke, provide an update on Budda Baker, and explain maybe why the Cardinals have two kickers on the active roster.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Patrick Peterson joins Luke and John Lund for the No Fly Zone to discuss how the injuries the Arizona Cardinals have suffered effect the long term future of the team, if the injuries are an excuse or an explanation for the Cardinals season, and how Nick Rallis has called defenses this season.
The Cardinals are on the road to Seattle, and the Dillingham rumors are finally over! On today's Valley Verdict, we break down the latest game-plan details from the Cardinals' coaching staff and the biggest off-field commitment for ASU this season.In this episode:Seattle Showdown Strategy: We get the official game plan breakdown from Coordinators Drew Petzing, Nick Rallis, and Jeff Rodgers as they prepare for the Seattle Seahawks.Gannon's Final Status Report: We cover Head Coach Jonathan Gannon's latest media availability on Friday, including who's confirmed in and who's out for the Cardinals' matchup in Seattle.Dillingham's Declaration: We dive into Kenny Dillingham's statement on 98.7 FM Arizona Sports, where he definitively declared, "I'm not leaving Arizona State." We analyze what this rare pledge means for the stability and recruiting future of the program.The Bye Week War Room: We check the Big 12 scoreboard! We discuss the crucial matchups that need to go against ASU's rivals this week, setting the stage for the Sun Devils' return against West Virginia in Tempe.Don't miss our final verdict on the strategy for the Seahawks and the long-term future of ASU football! Subscribe to The Valley Verdict and follow us on Facebook [@thevalleyverdict], Instagram [@thevalleyverdictpodcast], and YouTube [@thevalleyverdict] for more analysis.
Dive into a comprehensive preview of the Green Bay Packers' upcoming matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, where close losses and injuries could define the game. Host Ryan Schlipp breaks down why the Cardinals, despite their 2-4 record, are no pushover, having dropped four straight by a combined nine points against tough opponents. From coaching philosophies to schematic breakdowns, this episode uncovers what the Packers need to do to secure a road win. Detailed stats on Arizona's offense (20th in points) and defense (14th), highlighting their shift to a run-heavy West Coast scheme under Drew Petzing. Analysis of key injuries, including Kyler Murray's questionable status and the loss of running backs James Conner and Trey Benson, forcing reliance on backups. Exploration of defensive coordinator Nick Rallis' complex three-safety system and how it could challenge Jordan Love. Discussion of historical context, like Green Bay's 34-13 dominance over Arizona in 2024, and paths to victory for both teams. This episode is brought to you by PrizePicks! Use code PACKDADDY and visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/PACKDADDY to get started with America's #1 fantasy sports app. Subscribe now for more Packers insights, leave a rating and review to help the show grow, and join the conversation on social media with #PackernetPodcast. Tease: Next up, post-game reactions from the Cardinals clash. To advertise on this podcast please email: ad-sales@libsyn.com Or go to: https://advertising.libsyn.com/packernetpodcast
Dive into a comprehensive preview of the Green Bay Packers' upcoming matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, where close losses and injuries could define the game. Host Ryan Schlipp breaks down why the Cardinals, despite their 2-4 record, are no pushover, having dropped four straight by a combined nine points against tough opponents. From coaching philosophies to schematic breakdowns, this episode uncovers what the Packers need to do to secure a road win. Detailed stats on Arizona's offense (20th in points) and defense (14th), highlighting their shift to a run-heavy West Coast scheme under Drew Petzing. Analysis of key injuries, including Kyler Murray's questionable status and the loss of running backs James Conner and Trey Benson, forcing reliance on backups. Exploration of defensive coordinator Nick Rallis' complex three-safety system and how it could challenge Jordan Love. Discussion of historical context, like Green Bay's 34-13 dominance over Arizona in 2024, and paths to victory for both teams. This episode is brought to you by PrizePicks! Use code PACKDADDY and visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/PACKDADDY to get started with America's #1 fantasy sports app. Subscribe now for more Packers insights, leave a rating and review to help the show grow, and join the conversation on social media with #PackernetPodcast. Tease: Next up, post-game reactions from the Cardinals clash. To advertise on this podcast please email: ad-sales@libsyn.com Or go to: https://advertising.libsyn.com/packernetpodcast
Ep. 734 - A trade acquisition last year, edge rusher Baron Browning has quickly become an impact player for the Cardinals defense. Browning joined Paul Calvisi to discuss why Nick Rallis' defensive scheme is a perfect fit for him, how he thinks he can still improve his game, the defense's performance as a unit so far in 2025 and what it was like being a standout high school football player in the state of Texas. Plus, Calvisi is joined by Ron Wolfley to break down how the Cardinals offense can get the run game going, the need to get Marvin Harrison Jr. more targets and Calais Campbell continuing to make big plays in his 18th NFL season. Calvisi and Wolf also preview Sunday's matchup against the San Francisco 49ers and how to best defend a player like Christian McCaffrey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Cardinals are 2-0, and while there might be things to talk about getting better, how does that not leave Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Dani Sureck stoked for what's to come? Regardless, the trio discuss how the Cardinals can find a way to finish strong, a defense that played well most of the game despite the final score, the cornerbacks injuries and how Jonathan Gannon and Nick Rallis can solve what issues come from that, Josh Sweat's home debut, the storybook return of Calais Campbell, a touching segment of Getting Cultured, the expectations for MHJ, upgrading run production, a stunning episode of The Wise Guy, the NFC West and what the 49ers have with Mac Jones, Winning Behavior and the rising temperatures of San Jose.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jordan Burch joins Wolf and Luke to discuss how he is doing through the first two weeks of the NFL season, how complex the Arizona Cardinals defense is to understand, and what its been like playing for Nick Rallis.
The Arizona Cardinals are ready to get their season started, and so are we. On this special edition of The Valley Verdict, we're kicking off our Cardinals tailgate show by breaking down all the latest from head coach Jonathan Gannon and his coordinators. Plus, we dive into General Manager Monti Ossenfort's powerful message to Wolf and Luke on 98.7 FM that has all of the Valley talking.In this episode:Captains Announced: We break down Jonathan Gannon's announcement of the team captains for the 2025 season.The Coordinator Breakdown: We hear from offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, defensive coordinator Nick Rallis, and special teams coordinator Jeff Rodgers as they prepare for week one.The "We Expect to Win" Mentality: We analyze Monti Ossenfort's message and discuss what it says about the team's confidence heading into the season.Saints Showdown: We look at the Cardinals as the most-favored road team in week one and give our final verdict on whether they can take down the New Orleans Saints.Don't miss our latest take on the Arizona sports world! Subscribe to The Valley Verdict and follow us on Facebook [@thevalleyverdict], Instagram [@thevalleyverdictpodcast], and YouTube [@thevalleyverdict] for more analysis.
Ep. 911 - If two is good, then three has to be better, right? The three-safety look has been seen more times than not during training camp at State Farm Stadium. Will it be seen in the regular season? Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss why defensive coordinator Nick Rallis likes Budda Baker, Jalen Thompson and Rabbit Taylor-Demerson on the field at the same time and why maybe Rabbit has forced Rallis' hand based on how he played last season. Plus, Craig and Zach agree with Jonathan Gannon's new approach to the preseason, meaning the starters will play; and what or who stood out in what was the final open practice – a padded practice, by the way – of #CardsCamp on Wednesday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 722 - Former Cardinals running back Chase Edmonds joined Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to share his excitement about the Cardinals' offensive potential. Edmonds praised Kyler Murray's electrifying running ability and highlighted what makes James Conner such a force in the backfield. He also had high praise for tight end Trey McBride and opened up about what makes safety Budda Baker one of his favorite players in the league. Plus, Calvisi and Wolf broke down what could elevate Murray's game to the next level and why defensive coordinator Nick Rallis's scheme is tailor-made for a playmaker like Baker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Longtime NFL defender Lorenzo Alexander, who played 15 seasons, joined Paul Calvisi and Ron Wolfley to talk about the Cardinals' offseason. He discussed the team's additions to the defense, the return of his former teammate Calais Campbell, and how getting pressure with just four pass rushers could help defensive coordinator Nick Rallis. He also shared his thoughts on the young but talented group of cornerbacks. Plus, Calvisi and Wolfley talked about what more friction at training camp might look like, how running back Trey Benson plans to take advantage of his chances, and a surprising snub for Cardinals legend Larry Fitzgerald.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 892 - There's no question Josh Sweat can get after opposing quarterbacks. It's why he was targeted in free agency and ultimately landed a sizable contract to leave the east coast for the desert southwest. But that's not all he can do, or will be asked to do with the Arizona Cardinals. Sweat is a three-down linebacker. Craig Grialou and Zach Gershman discuss what that means within the defensive scheme, Sweat reuniting with Jonathan Gannon and Nick Rallis plus how Sweat is embracing his role as being the guy on defense. Also, what is the latest on injured outside linebacker BJ Ojulari and what wide receiver Greg Dortch said on Wednesday that had many taken aback, including Craig.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ep. 890 - His individual numbers may not jump off the stat page, but Zaven Collins brings more than just numbers to the defense. He brings versatility. More importantly, he's earned the trust of both head coach Jonathan Gannon and defensive coordinator Nick Rallis. They see value in Collins more so than perhaps fans and many in the media. Craig Grialou, back from vacation, and Darren Urban discuss Collins' importance to the team. Also, how often do Craig and Darren expect to see Josh Sweat on the field this season, especially given recent comments by Rallis? Finally, the guys shout-out Dennis Gardeck, who after seven seasons in Arizona is reportedly joining the Jacksonville Jaguars.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the Cardinals go through their second week of OTAs, Paul Calvisi, Darren Urban and Dani Sureck might have a couple of zingers for each other, but that's to be expected in this highly competitive environment. It's the launching point to discuss the meaning of attendance in voluntary work, a visit by Kenny Dillingham, the foolish idea that J.G. is under pressure, allowing defensive backs to challenge pass catchers in camp, the idea the offense will level up with more motion, a new Out Of Context, what Gannon seeks in guys being in shape; Walter Nolen III's progress, Nick Rallis' options with his new defensive line, how other teams are running Cardinals' schemes, a new Winning Behavior and the “QB mentor,” and Saquon and the Madden Cur… er, cover.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.