GLENDALE, AZ., -- The Redskins will be down a starter on defense against Arizona on Sunday, as linebacker Perry Riley is inactive. Meanwhile, receiver Santana Moss is active for the first time this season.
It's not surprising that Riley is inactive, considering he struggled to run without grimacing even on Friday. Will Compton, who has 21 career snaps, will make his first NFL start. The Redskins will miss Riley's speed and athleticism, but he's also struggled in coverage -- sometimes just in executing his assignments. Even if Compton can't match his athleticism, the Redskins hope he'll compensate by being in the right places at the right time.
Also, tight end Jordan Reed will play, as expected. The question will be, how long can he last? If Reed holds up, there could be plenty of chances for him. With Arizona's blitz game, the Redskins could use his ability to win fast against man coverage.
Moss being active means receiver Aldrick Robinson is inactive for the first time this season. Robinson had a strong summer, but has done very little during the season. The other inactives: quarterback Robert Griffin III, cornerback Tracy Porter, linebacker Jackson Jeffcoat, tackle Morgan Moses and guard Spencer Long.
For Arizona, quarterback Carson Palmer will start after being questionable throughout the week because of a shoulder injury. Backup quarterback Drew Stanton, who was questionable with a concussion, is available as well. That's huge news for Arizona, which nearly had to rely on rookie Logan Thomas.
The Cardinals' inactives: running back Marion Grice, linebacker Desmond Bishop, linebacker Thomas Keiser, linebacker Glenn Carson, defensive tackle Bruce Gaston, tight end Troy Niklas and defensive end Calais Campbell. The latter is a big loss for the Cards, removing a big, athletic lineman.
