Arizona Cardinals’ special teams coach: Patrick Peterson playing ‘outside of himself’

For Arizona Cardinals’ Patrick Peterson, his sophomore campaign has been a trying one. As a rookie, Peterson was a dynamic force on the field and made his presence known early and often. But as his performance elevated, so did expectations.

This season, the Cardinals’ cornerback and punt return specialist has struggled to find his groove, and seemingly has been pressing to try to make a play happen.

Special teams coach Kevin Spencer said he’s aware of his opponents’ approach when it comes to covering Peterson and he’s trying to make adjustments accordingly.

“I know what people are trying to do so what can we do a little bit more effectively, whether it be technique or scheme to try to get a crack to get him going,” Spencer said.

Spencer said he’s not dwelling on the past and instead evaluating ways the team can get their promising young star back on track.

“I think it’s just we’ve got to move forward and again I think [Peterson] is just trying too hard,” Spencer stated. “When have you ever seen a game where he put two balls on the ground? I think he’s just trying so desperately to make a play that even he is playing outside of himself.”

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