When Cardinals RB James Conner puts on his spikes, things get spooky

Arizona Cardinals RB James Conner sets a physical tone on offense setting up for QB Kyler Murray in the play-action pass game.

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner ranks No. 8 in the NFL in total rushing yards (554) and No. 7 in total carries (129). His downhill running ability is a scary sight for undersized defensive backs at the second and third level.

The NFC West is wide open with the spooky Cardinals currently in first place heading into Week 9. Head coach Jonathan Gannon has relied on Conner to set a physical tone on offense, while offensive coordinator Drew Petzing treats himself to a plethora of plays to trick the defense in play-action. 

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In three of the Cardinals’ four wins this season, Conner has recorded runs of 14 yards or more. While this may seem insignificant, his ability to gash the defense for first downs makes the play-action strategy extremely effective for quarterback Kyler Murray.

With the exception of San Francisco linebacker Fred Warner, few second-level defenders can both account for Conner and cover tight end Trey McBride in play-action situations.

Furthermore, it will always be a haunting sight to see Conner coming downhill because opponents know that his effectiveness single-handedly ignites the spooky potential of Petzing’s playbook.

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