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Gannon Praises Conner’s Instincts as Key to Cardinals’ Success

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (6) breaks a tackle by New York Jets safety Jalen Mills (35) after a catch during the first quarter at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Nov. 10, 2024.

The Arizona running back has been a steady force this season leading running backs with 18 broken tackles. Conner has created first downs on 29.6 percent of his carries compared to Derrick Henry at 26.4. James Conner time after time this season has been making explosive gains when the team needs it most, showing his stellar leadership skills to get the team motivated.

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Head Coach Jonathan Gannon talked about Conner today and he explained that yes there are standard operations to teach players to bust tackles but there is an instinct Conner has. JG told the media today “What’s really cool about James when I watch the tape and he does break a lot of tackles  …is he knows when to make sure the ball is secure too while he is breaking tackles…” Gannon mentioned that fundamentals are taught to the team, but did not take anything away from the talent of Conner and said  No. 6 understands the value of knowing when the play needs to end. 

Gannon went on to give Conner recognition stating Conner can go one on one, against two or three opponents and Conner is going to break tackles. Conner’s stats represent that grit he has on the gridiron and numbers are trending in the right direction for a Cardinals continued successful season. Conners’ 2024 regular season stats:

  • 697 yards, 13th 
  • 5 touchdowns, tied 17th

NFL Career:

  • 8 seasons
  • 1,284 carries for 5,570 yards
  • 258 catches for 2,050 yards
  • Scored 66 touchdowns

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The offense with Conner will only get stronger with the possible return of right tackle Jonah Williams, the Cardinals have some players becoming active and possible changes to line up to accommodate injuries. Cardinal’s defense is facing the same possibilities with DL Darius Robinson debut still questionable too. The Cardinals released an injury report today with some game day decisions listed so there could be some surprises to check out Sunday.

Could Conner’s instincts take him back to the Pro Bowl this year? Check out James Conner play against the Cardinals’ rival the Seattle Seahawks Sunday.

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Jacqline Rhodes is a writer for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on X via @JackieRhodes_

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