The Patriots have a solid opportunity ahead of them in Week 15, as they take on the Cardinals in Glendale and could wreak havoc on another team hoping to contend for the playoffs. The NFC West is also still wide open, with the perennial 49ers having an unexpectedly poor year, leaving the division up for grabs between Arizona and Seattle.
Because the Patriots are aiming for improvement for the rest of the season, with draft positioning on the minds of every fan, they could easily make crushing the dreams of hopeful teams their goal over the remaining four games. That would be especially sweet against the Bills, whom they have to play twice in a three-week span.
They can start that by beating the Cardinals on their home turf, which won't be easy considering they hope to break a three-game losing streak and further their rise to the top of their division with a win over the Patriots.
Announcers for New England Patriots vs. Arizona Cardinals
- Lead Play-by-Play Announcer: Tom McCarthy
- Color Commentator(s): Jay Feely, Ross Tucker
- Sideline Reporter(s): Amanda Baliones
Referees for Patriots vs. Cardinals
- Umpire: Barry Anderson (#20)
- Down Judge: Frank LeBlanc (#44)
- Line Judge: Brian Bolinger (#40)
- Field Judge: Ryan Dickson (#25)
- Side Judge: Keith Washington (#7)
- Ball Judge: Tony Josselyn (#67)
Ron Torbert will be the head official for the Patriots Week 15 matchup with the Cardinals. He was in charge of their game against the Texans earlier this season, which was a memorable day for many reasons, most of which are not good for New England.
Besides ultimately losing 41-21, it was the first start for rookie quarterback Drake Maye, officially beginning the Maye era in New England. He immediately impressed by throwing for three scores against a talented Texans' defense, which inevitably led to two interceptions and a fumble by the quarterback.
While that was certainly a concern, perhaps the biggest takeaway was Torbert and his crew's flag-happy attitude throughout the game. On the day, 13 penalties were accepted, nine of which were on the Patriots for a loss of 50 yards.
Their undisciplined performance and eager officials ready to throw a flag made for a long and disappointing day. Hopefully, that won't be the case this time.
Time & Channel for Patriots vs. Cardinals
- Date: December 15, 2024
- Time: 4:25 pm EST
- Location: State Farm Stadium
- Channel: CBS