WHAT WE NEED IS THREE

My Arizona Cardinals need three for Saturday afternoon's playoff game against the Saints in New Orleans.

The courage. Like the lion (and not the Lions of the NFL), we have to demonstrate courageous furiosity. That means we have to play hard. That shouldn't be a problem for a playoff team with experience, but if I'm asking The Wizard, that's one thing critical. Go over the middle on a slant, knowing full well that you'll be smeared, but do it, because it's necessary. Don't call for a fair catch even when you know a defender is only a few feet from knocking you cold. Be brave: be bold.

A heart. There's no doubt this team has heart. The game against the Pack proved that. But if The Wizard doesn't mind, I would put that necessity near the top of the list. More than a love for the game, we need the desire to sacrifice the body for the good of the team. Not just hard licks, the kinds that they show on replays. Good, hard hits--no cheap shots.

A brain. From the coaching staff to the special team players, we have to play good, smart football. Know your assignments; know your capabilities. Be precise and accurate. Anticipate and react. Know what is coming. Read blitzes (is there anyone better than Warner at that?), zone coverages, and yes on-side kicks. You're allowed one screw up and you've used it up.

That's what I'd ask of The Wiz. Hey, isn't that our coach's nickname? If we can just be like the Oz characters to a point. Then we won't need Dorothy's wish to go home. No way. We don't want that. The Cardinals want to advance to the NFC Title Game.