Cardinals vs. Cowboys: 6 position battles to watch

The Arizona Cardinals will clash with the Dallas Cowboys in their third preseason game at State Farm Stadium, scheduled for Saturday night. Although star quarterbacks like Jacoby Brissett are not expected to play, several position battles will be of interest. Among these matchups include the wide receiver position, with Jalen Brooks, Reggie Virgil, and Simi Fehoko all performing impressively.

Brooks has led the team in receiving, Fehoko has excelled in special teams and has caught a touchdown pass in four consecutive preseason games, while Virgil has made significant plays as well. These three players are competing for one or two roster spots.

On the ground, the running back battle features Bam Knight and Corey Kiner. With Tyler Allgeier, Jeremiyah Love, and James Conner solidifying the top three spots, the question remains as to who will claim the fourth position. Knight is currently favored, but Kiner has demonstrated equally impressive performances during the preseason, and both are anticipated to receive ample playing time.

In the tight end category, Teagan Quitoriano and Rivaldo Fairweather will vie for the third-string position. Quitoriano appears to be leading the way, but Fairweather has also proven to be a reliable option. The backup guard position has opened up due to Chase Bisontis' absence for the season. Hayden Conner, Matt Pryor, and Oli Udoh are the primary candidates, with Conner currently appearing ahead of the other two.

Conner is versatile, capable of playing both guard and center roles, while Pryor and Udoh have previous experience as starting right guards and tackles.

The inside linebacker position is also up for grabs, with Mack Wilson, Cody Simon, and Jack Gibbens already secured. The remaining spot will be contested between Owen Pappoe and Karson Sharar. Pappoe has logged over 300 special teams snaps over the past two seasons, while Sharar, a rookie, showcased his talent as a special teams player during his college years. Sharar has also made notable contributions in the preseason, and his performance will be crucial in determining the final roster spot.