Arizona Cardinals defensive coordinator Nick Rallis has determined that using blitz is the optimal way to frustrate opponents in the pass game. Still, the Cardinals haven’t been perfect against the pass, but safety Budda Baker has done diligence, making open field tackles to stifle offensive drives.
NFL trade deadline rumors hinted that Baker would be shipped off to another franchise. However, a move of that magnitude would drastically change the dynamic of the Cardinals defense.
Amongst NFL teams, the Cardinals rank No. 2 in blitz percentage and No. 4 with a 41.2 blitz percentage on third downs. Rallis has accepted that traditional man coverage and a pass rush without the extras will not work for his personnel group. So, like the good coaches in the NFL do, Rallis has made adjustments.
With Rallis sending extra defenders on the blitz, Baker has been asked to cover ground, and this has led to an increase in his tackle totals. Baker has 91 tackles this season and ranks No. 2 in that category amongst all NFL players. If not for Baker, where really would the Cardinals be?
On Sunday versus the New York Jets, expect Rallis to blitz quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and Baker to be in on many tackles versus the Jets’ wide receivers. If the Jets fall into down and distance the Cardinals will have a chance to tally up a few sacks and continue their winning streak.
