The Arizona Cardinals, at one time this season, seemed like real contenders for the NFL crown. Now, after a series of devastating injuries at the game's most important position, the team has been crippled offensively - they haven't scored more than 18 points in a game since Week 10.
Somewhat good news could be coming though, as the latest rumor says that former back-up and now de-facto starter, Drew Stanton, could be set to return for the playoffs.
"He's going to practice some this week, and we'll see how he goes," Arians said on SiriusXM NFL Radio, per Josh Weinfuss of ESPN. "Do not plan on playing him this week unless it was absolutely necessary."
Stanton, who sustained a right knee injury after replacing Carson Palmer in the starting lineup, won't suit up against the San Francisco 49ers this weekend - it's looking more and more like the team will go with young project Logan Thomas instead of back-up to the back-up, Ryan Lindley - but Arians pegged his return for an expected Wild Card round playoff game at 85 percent.
The Cardinals, 11-4 and in first place in the NFC West, are preparing to play in their first postseason game since 2009. Arians though, is still in evaluation mode when it comes to his quarterbacks.
Despite Thomas being rough around the edges, Arians said he needs to see him in action to know what he truly has at his disposal - ostensibly in case Stanton isn't available for the playoffs as expected.
"It's the guy who can make the most plays given an opportunity," Arians said. "We gave Ryan an opportunity, and he made some plays. He had an opportunity to make some more, and we just missed them. I want to make sure that if Logan can make the plays against the Niners in a critical game, then we may make the right decision if Drew gets injured or Drew can't go going into the playoffs."
With a superb defense and a strong supporting cast, the Cardinals have been able to survive without plus quarterback play to this point. But in the playoffs, that won't be the case.
