Posted by Darren Urban on December 6, 2013 – 12:59 pm

Carson Palmer’s status for Sunday’s game against the Rams is going to come down to a decision on game day, coach Bruce Arians said, and the quarterback — who was limited again Friday — will officially be questionable with his ailing right elbow. Arians expressed confidence Palmer will be able to play.

“He’ll be a game-time,” Arians said. “I’m sure he’ll be ready to go.”

Arians did say he needs to see Palmer throw some Sunday, which is what makes it a game-day choice. Not surprisingly, he emphasized how much faith he has in backup quarterback Drew Stanton should Stanton have to play. “If it comes to that, Drew will do a hell of a job,” Arians said. “There is no doubt in my mind.”

Arians said Palmer’s two interceptions in Philadelphia did not have anything to do with the injured elbow. One game because Palmer was being hit as he threw, Arians said, and the other was a poor decision by Palmer where he was throwing the ball. The limited work all week for Palmer in practice would seem to be a setback in preparation, but Arians said it shouldn’t be in part because the Rams have a fairly straightforward defensive philosophy and in part because Palmer has gotten in tune with the offense.

“Sometimes it is good this time of year to give the veteran a couple days off and let the young guy get some reps anyway,” Arians said. “He got every mental rep. I’m sure he will be fine throwing the ball.”

As for Stanton, he has not thrown a regular-season pass since Dec. 19, 2010, when he had his best NFL game playing for the Lions, completing 23 of 37 passes for 252 yards and a touchdown. Arians said he isn’t worried about having to turn to a quarterback with such rust, if needed. “He’s prepared,” Arians said. “Having been with him all last year, there was never a doubt … because he does know the offense inside and out.”

— Arians said running back Andre Ellington (knee) “looked just like himself” and is no longer wearing a knee brace. He also said wide receiver Michael Floyd (ankle) is fine. Both are expected to play.

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