Arizona Cardinals notes

HOT WATER?: According to a TMZ.com report, Pro Bowl WR Larry Fitzgerald, above, was ordered to stay away from his former girlfriend, Angela Nazario, and their 11-month-year-old son. Nazario said, according to the report, she brought the couple's son to see Fitzgerald in October at his Phoenix home and he pushed her down and pulled out some of her hair.

ROOKIE HONORED: Rookie CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie was named NFL defensive rookie of the month Wednesday. The first-round pick had 15 tackles, two interception and a fumble recovery in four games.

UP TO D: The Cardinals have perhaps their best offense ever, but their playoff hopes may depend on their enigmatic defense. Arizona Republic columnist Dan Bickley writes: "It can be a disruptive bunch. It can force turnovers by the bushel. It can dance and play to the crowd. It also can self-destruct like sensitive government material. Will it rise to the moment?"

BLACKOUT?: The Cardinals received a 24-hour extension to avoid a local television blackout. They must sell the remaining 5,600 tickets by 2:30 p.m. today.

Number of the day

427 Points by the Cardinals, a franchise best.

Joe Smith, Times staff writer