Cards' Skelton fails to practice, doubtful for Patriots

John Skelton sprained his ankle against Seattle last Sunday.

EPA /Landov

TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) -- Arizona quarterback John Skelton is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game at New England, but coach Ken Whisenhunt is refusing to rule him out altogether.

Skelton sprained his right ankle in the fourth quarter of last Sunday's game against Seattle. Kevin Kolb relieved him and directed the decisive touchdown drive in the Cardinals' 20-16 victory.

Whisenhunt says he "has hope" that Skelton will be available. The coach says Skelton was out of the protective boot and did some rehab work on the field. Whisenhunt also says he knows Skelton is into the game plan mentally.

Skelton beat out Kolb for the starting job in a protracted battle that wasn't decided until nine days before the season opener.

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