One would think that Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson would be happy with a 9-1 record and a clear shot at home-field advantage in the NFC Playoffs.
While the Pro Bowler did sound enthusiastic about his team’s performance thus far, he isn’t as enthusiastic about the performance of the officials in what has been a 2014 season marred by controversy.
Responding to a question from CBS Sports Radio host Doug Gottlieb about being one of the most penalized players in the NFL this year, Peterson sounded off.
I think the game, the way it’s officiated, they made an emphasis of make sure these guys are playing within the rules; make sure these guys are playing within that five-yard premises,” Peterson said. “They just want to really, really crack down on defenses because obviously they want to see points.
This is an offensive league. But at the end of the day, I want to continue playing my game. I’m a physical corner. I’m going to continue to play physical. I don’t know why it seems like the refs are after me, but I have to play the game not worrying about those guys. I have to go out there and play to win. If they call the flag, they call the flag. I have to move forward. I can’t dwell on it.
Peterson isn’t alone in this assessment, as many defenders have taken to the media in order to air frustration over new rules that seem to favor the offense in what is quickly becoming, as Peterson put it, “an offensive league.”
Whatever Peterson and the Cardinals are doing is working just fine. And no amount of penalties on the talented cornerback should change that.
Arizona boasts a 9- 1 record and is currently three games ahead of both the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks in the NFC West.
Photo: USA Today