Carson Palmer did not play well in last year’s preseason, completing 12-of-22 passes for 139 yards with no touchdowns and three interceptions.
The passing game then underachieved in the regular season, as the veteran quarterback’s numbers dipped across the board after a magical 2015. Critics wondered if the team’s relaxed attitude toward the exhibition slate was a culprit, and coach Bruce Arians said on Thursday he does hope to get his starters more snaps this preseason.
But even though the first-stringers could play the entire first quarter against the Bears on Saturday – Arians said 20 plays will likely be the maximum – the increase doesn’t have to do with settling into a rhythm.