TEMPE, Ariz. -- Arizona’s defense played fast and furious Sunday in a 22-6 win over the Carolina Panthers, recording seven sacks and three interceptions in the process.
It was just the start of another stats-filled day for the Cardinals defense.
The Cards’ seven sacks were their most since they had eight against Dallas on Sept. 13, 1987 -- when the team was still in St. Louis. Sunday was also the first time since 1983 that the Cardinals had seven or more sacks and three or more interceptions (11 sacks, four interceptions against Philadelphia on Dec. 18, 1983).
Before linebackers Karlos Dansby and Daryl Washington had two sacks and an interception each against the Panthers, only three other Cardinals had accomplished that feat.
Adrian Wilson vs. Seattle, Sept. 17, 2006
Rod Saddler vs. Philadelphia, Nov. 22, 1987
Al Baker vs. L.A. Rams, Dec. 11, 1983
Sunday was the second time in Washington’s career that he had an interception and a sack in the same game. The last time was also against the Panthers in the 2011 season opener.
Other notes about the defense:
The Cardinals have outscored opponents 32-0 in the fourth quarter of their three victories this season.
Arizona hasn’t allowed a touchdown in seven quarters -- since the first quarter of Tampa Bay.
After Sunday, the Cards defense has stopped opponents’ rushes a league-high 22 times behind the line of scrimmage.
Arizona has allowed just one rushing touchdown this season.
The 22-6 final score from Sunday was just the fifth game to end with that tally. The last time was 1996.