Arizona Cardinals Still Hurting, Boldin To Be A Game Time Decision

NFL News - January 14th, 2010 - Written by John

In the Wildcard round of the playoffs last weekend, the Arizona Cardinals were able to amass a total 51 points against a tough Green Bay Packers defense. More impressive, they did it without one of their top play makers, WR Anquan Boldin.

The Cardinals were able to survive a shootout against the Packers in a game that went to overtime, however this week against the Saints, Arizona will need Boldin back in the lineup, making plays. Coming into this game, Boldin has been hindered by a left ankle injury, as well as a knee injury, suffered two weeks ago in the regular season finale.

Boldin, along with LB Gerald Hayes, did not practice with the team on Wednesday. Officially listed as Questionable for the match up against the Saints, both players will be a 'game time decision' according to Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt.

In Boldin's absence, Cardinals WR Steve Breaston filled in nicely against the Packers in the opening round of the 2009 NFL Playoffs. In total, Breaston hauled in seven receptions for 125 yards and a touchdown during that Wildcard matchup. Come Sunday, should Boldin be unable to go, Breaston will look to step into the 2 spot, while WR Early Doucet would move to the 3 reciever.

In his seventh year of NFL service, Boldin performed well during the regular season campaign, catching 84 passes for 1,024 yards and four touchdowns. Boldin's production and presence will be missed should he no be able to get on the field for the Divisional round.

Other notable injuries on the Cardinals include LB Gerald Hayes, who is Questionable with a sprained right ankle. K Neil Rackers, who missed a game winning 34-yard field goal attempt last week, is officially listed as Probable with a groin injury. RB Tim Hightower accumulated 19 yards on seven carries last week, but is also listed as Probable with a knee injury. S Antrel Rolle is another player officially listed as probable, with a thigh contusion. Rolle compiled a career-high of 13 tackles last week against the Packers.

According to the current NFL Playoff Betting Lines, Arizona is listed as a 2 1/2 point underdog heading into this weekend's match up with the New Orleans Saints. Kickoff for this game is at 4:30EST and will be broadcast Nationally on FOX. Look for each player's official game status to be announced leading up to the kickoff.