Cardinals LB Zaven Collins Gets Back-to-Back Turnovers vs Commanders

Originally posted on FanNation All Cardinals
By Donnie Druin | Last updated 9/10/23

There were questions on how Arizona Cardinals LB Zaven Collins would transition to his new spot at outside linebacker. The former first-round pick spent his first two years in the league as an inside linebacker in the desert.

Yet new opportunities with a new coaching staff could maximize his potential.

Through not even two quarters of play, we'd say he's not looking too shabby.

In the early stages of the second quarter, Collins dropped into zone coverage and baited Washington Commanders QB Sam Howell into throwing an interception with some help from his front seven.

First pick of the season goes to 2️⃣5️⃣@ZavenCollins x #BirdGang pic.twitter.com/sxbySCT9wg
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) September 10, 2023

The Cardinals would knock home a field goal on the ensuing drive to draw within a 7-6 score line.

Looking to get revenge, Washington marched down the field and found themselves in scoring position inside the 20-yard line. With Commanders RB Antonio Gibson running up the gut, Cardinals LB Victor Dimukeje knocked the ball loose with Collins able to fall on it, his second turnover of the game.

we don't promote violence, but that punch was ‍@Vicdimukeje x #BirdGang pic.twitter.com/2FmkK4ua7L
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) September 10, 2023

Unfortunately, the Cardinals were unable to make anything from the second turnover by Collins. Arizona QB Josh Dobbs was sacked on third down and Nolan Cooney's punt traveled just 34 yards to Arizona's 49-yard line.

Collins didn't get extensive time at OLB during the preseason, and though we've yet to see him get home as a pass-rusher, it's nice to see Collins make plays from his new spot.

This article first appeared on FanNation All Cardinals and was syndicated with permission.

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