In a possible game-changing play, Pernell McPhee missed a sack with a free run at Cardinals QB Carson Palmer on a brilliantly devised rush scheme – four edge rushers as the defensive line – that should have ended a drive on a third-and-10. The miss allowed the Cardinals to complete a pass to convert and continue what proved to be their third touchdown drive.
“That was a lack of focus on my end,” McPhee said. “That could’ve changed the whole game. Just lack of focus. I’ve got to finish that; I’ve got to. That would’ve changed the game, in my eyes. I’ll take that on me and I just have to work harder in practice and finish.”
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Jared Allen gave the offense and defense a boost when he deflected a Palmer pass up in the air and made the interception to give the Chicago offense the football at the Arizona 12-yard line. Allen also delivered two hits on Palmer.
"Kist tried to make a play on the ball and was fortunate,” Allen said. “Obviously one play isn’t enough… . We need to get off the field on third down.”
Shea McClellin was named the sixth team captain based on his performance in the Green Bay game and McPhee was the cover boy for the Soldier Field Game Day program. McClellin was credited with a team-high 9 tackles tackles in the preliminary stat report. McPhee got a hit on Palmer early, one of three quarterback hits for McPhee, and blew up a run play with wins over Arizona RT Earl Watford.
Moon's Grade: D