Arizona Cardinals: 3 Matchups to Watch vs. Rams
By Shaun Church
RG Jonathan Cooper vs. DT Aaron Donald
Sep 13, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back Chris Johnson (23) runs the ball as guard Jonathan Cooper (61) blocks New Orleans Saints linebacker Hau
In three games, Donald has 3.5 sacks from his defensive tackle spot. Since being drafted 13th overall last year, his 12.5 sacks are the most by an interior defensive lineman in the NFL.
This matchup is why general manager Steve Keim drafted Cooper so high—No. 7 overall, the former scout’s first-ever draft pick at his new job. These two behemoths are very athletic for their size, so it will be fun to watch them square off 50 times on Sunday.
#AZCardinals OC Harold Goodwin compared #Rams DT Aaron Donald to a young Warren Sapp. Said he could be a DPOY candidate. "He's scary."
— Kyle Odegard (@Kyle_Odegard) October 1, 2015
Cooper has held his own through the first three weeks, but Donald is the best defensive tackle in the NFL right now. Few match his quickness off the ball; his anticipation and strength combined with his short-area quickness make him nearly impossible to contain for 60 minutes.
Donald will make a big play against Cooper. It’s just what he does. Let’s hope it doesn’t turn the game in favor of the Rams.
Next: Will Fitz have another big game?