Beanie Wells will get the starting nod at running back when the Arizona Cardinals meet the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday in Tempe, Ariz.
The Cardinals' official website reported on Friday that Wells will replace Tim Hightower in the starting lineup.
Hightower's ball security problems may be the primary reason for Wells' ascention on the depth chart. Hightower lost his third crucial fumble of the season in Arizona's Week 7 loss to the division-rival Seattle Seahawks.
"I am always taking full responsibility for my actions, and you look at it and think, 'What ifs, what ifs, what ifs,' " Hightower said. "At the end of the day, if you are constantly asking yourself 'What if,' you're probably not in too good of shape."
The news was not considered surprising, as Wells has carried the workload since returning from meniscus surgery that cost him the first two games of the season. Wells has carried the ball 53 times for 183 yards (3.5 average) and a touchdown, while Hightower has 52 carries for 298 yards (5.7 average) and two scores.
"Tim is still going to get carries and be involved in all aspects of the offense," Whisenhunt said on Friday. "He's not going to just be a third-down back. … But (Beanie starting) is the way we're going to go."
Wells was the Cardinals' No. 1 draft pick in 2009.
The Cardinals are expected to have quarterback Max Hall back on the field, a week after sustaining a concussion in Seattle. Linebacker Clark Haggans (groin) is doubtful, while defensive tackle Alan Branch (back) and wide receiver Early Doucet (groin) are listed as questionable. Wide receiver Steve Breaston (knee) is also listed as questionable, but is expected to play.
For the Bucs, defensive tackle Brian Price (pelvis), tackle Jeremy Trueblood (knee), and center Jeff Faine (quadricep) will not play. Wide receiver Preston Hill is doubtful with a knee injury, while linebacker Geno Hayes (knee) and defensive end Kyle Moore (shoulder) are listed as questionable.
