The obvious matchup: Can Beachum Hold the Line Against Hutchinson's Pressure?

The key matchup to watch in the Arizona Cardinals’ upcoming game is between backup offensive tackle Kelvin Beachum and rising star Aidan Hutchinson of the Detroit Lions. Hutchinson, who has quickly made a name for himself as one of the league’s premier edge rushers, presents a daunting challenge for any lineman. In this case, the challenge is heightened with Beachum stepping in for the injured Jonah Williams.

Beachum, a veteran in the league, held his own against the Los Angeles Rams in recent weeks. However, his performance in Week 1 raised concerns, as he allowed two sacks to a much older Von Miller. At 35 years old, Miller may no longer be in his prime, but his experience and technique still allowed him to exploit Beachum’s weaknesses. Facing Hutchinson, a younger, more explosive pass rusher, could be an even greater test for the Cardinals’ backup lineman.

For the Cardinals, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Their offensive success is tied heavily to Beachum’s ability to protect the quarterback. If Hutchinson is allowed to get into rhythm early, it could be a long day for the Arizona offense. Hutchinson’s ability to create pressure not only disrupts passing plays but also affects the run game, making the Cardinals’ offensive game plan vulnerable.

With Arizona’s defense facing its own issues, the team may not be able to rely on a shootout or high-scoring game to secure a win. If Beachum can hold the line and keep Hutchinson at bay, the Cardinals stand a fighting chance. Otherwise, their offensive struggles could compound, leading to a lopsided result in Detroit’s favor. This matchup may very well determine the outcome of the game.