PHX Reporter

Marrying Jayden Daniels' visit to Arizona this week as the rookie starting quarterback of the Washington Commanders – they play the Cardinals Sunday – to his three-year stint as Arizona State QB is an obvious storyline.

But the Cardinals are only thinking of the three NFL games Daniels has played, including the last two in which Daniels has led the Commanders to scores on every single drive. No punts. No turnovers.

"He's got a unique skillset, but he can throw it all over the place," Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon said. "He can extend plays. He can throw it down the field. Big-time player."

Daniels was highly effective Monday night in a win over the Bengals, completing 21-of-23 passes for 254 yards and two TDs, and adding another 39 yards rushing and a TD. It was reminiscent of Kyler Murray's performance the week before against the Rams.

However, he has only played three NFL games. And usually – usually – rookie QBs are up and down. The Cardinals hope this week can be down.

"You kind of have to look at the big picture a little more when there is less film about him playing in the NFL," defensive coordinator Nick Rallis said, noting it was more about forecasting than tendencies.

The Cardinals have played several notable rookie quarterbacks over the last decade or so. Most of the time, it's turned into a Cardinals win. Last year, when Rallis with the Cardinals faced a noteworthy rookie QB, they lost to C.J. Stroud, although he threw three of his five interceptions that season.

Defensive lineman Dante Stills said the Cardinals want to keep Daniels in the pocket, noting how he troubled the Bengals by escaping rushes and making plays downfield. The Cards had issues with Bills QB Josh Allen in Week 1, but Allen's style differed from Daniels'.

It just seems like the Commanders are hoping Daniels can outplay Murray. And Kyler needs to make sure that doesn't happen.

One last note: The Daniels stat about two straight games with all scoring drives? Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes, Peyton Manning and Drew Brees have combined to do that twice total through 1,094 starts including playoffs.

Trey McBride wasn’t ready to be a healthy scratch back in his rookie season of 2022 in his first NFL game. He was so used to playing. Now he's too good not to play. But injuries happen, and McBride's concussion will keep him out Sunday. McBride hasn't had a breakout game yet in 2024 but remains important in both passing game and offense strategy against a Washington defense vulnerable to tight ends.

Elijah Higgins figures to get McBride's role while Tip Reiman might get more passes and Travis Vokolek could be active for the first time.

Veteran tight end Zach Ertz will play for Washington while McBride sits out with an injury after Ertz's injury last season opened opportunities for McBride leading eventually to Ertz asking for his release.

Gannon was asked if rookie defensive lineman Darius Robinson would return next week from IR due to his calf issue but declined dealing in hypotheticals. Rookie tackle Christian Jones and cornerback Elijah Jones could also theoretically return soon.

Former Cardinals coach Kliff Kingsbury returns as offensive coordinator for Washington Commanders and spoke positively about Murray and his time coaching Arizona during local practice at ASU.

About Murray: "It's been fun to watch him...You can see quickness and competitive nature is there...I still believe in it."

As for how his tenure ended: "Not at all." Kingsbury expressed gratitude towards Michael Bidwill for giving him an opportunity despite being fired from college coaching previously mentioning some players like James Conner still inspire him holding positive memories overall.

Second-string-turned-starting-right-tackle Kelvin Beachum missed last week due hamstring injury listed questionable again; Charlie Heck available on practice squad though Jackson Barton landed IR this week after toe injury meanwhile right guard Will Hernandez commented having many different neighbors thus far part football accepting imperfections scenarios not letting affect mindset performance-wise emphasizing importance maintaining run game effectiveness despite struggles acknowledging O-line responsibility ensuring better results moving forward defensively noted piling significant negative plays tied league lead reflecting occasional strong performances key moments ultimately aiming consistent improvement throughout remainder season ahead crucial matchup upcoming Sunday against formidable opponent Commanders seeking continue momentum established recent successes under leadership promising young quarterback Jayden Daniels determined achieving favorable outcome hosting home crowd support vital component efforts collectively striving victory crucial contest schedule unfolding exciting narrative compelling storylines multiple angles perspectives surrounding intriguing clash anticipation building amongst fans observers alike eagerly awaiting showdown decisive impact implications future trajectory respective teams involved pivotal encounter horizon looming large significance overarching context ongoing campaign progression continued evolution development various facets integral aspects dynamic ever-changing landscape professional football today reflecting broader themes challenges inherent competitive high-stakes environment sport enduring popularity global audience captivating millions worldwide passionately following beloved franchises heroes battles unfold field gridiron spectacle grandeur drama unparalleled intensity fervor shared experience uniting diverse communities common bond love cherished pastime rich tradition history spanning generations legacy timeless appeal inspiring countless individuals generations come long-lasting imprint cultural fabric society indelible mark left collective consciousness hearts minds forever etched memory enduring testament enduring spirit resilience determination pursuit excellence exemplified epitomized finest athletes dedicated professionals embodying essence greatness unwavering commitment values principles defining characteristics hallmark iconic institution revered respected admired globally transcending boundaries barriers forging connections bridging gaps fostering understanding mutual respect admiration universal language unifying force transcendent power sport encapsulating best humanity noble aspirations dreams aspirations fulfilled triumph adversity celebration achievement boundless potential limitless possibilities future holds promise brighter days ahead