Cardinals' Carson Palmer 'can't wait to get to Carolina'

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer is understandably excited to be playing in the first conference championship game of his career.

The 36-year-old has found very little postseason success despite a highly productive career, playing in just two playoff games prior to this season, losing both.

Now that Palmer has finally won a playoff contest - holding off the Green Bay Packers in the divisional round - he can't wait for the chance to win a second against the Carolina Panthers in Sunday's NFC Championship game.

"Can’t wait to get to Carolina," Palmer said, according to Kent Somers of AZ Central. "Great opportunity. Love the way we play on the road in the face of adversity."

Injuries have been a big part of Palmer's lack of postseason success. With the Cincinnati Bengals in 2005, he suffered a knee injury in a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, throwing just one pass during the contest. Four years later, Palmer started his second - and last - playoff game for the Bengals, this time losing to the New York Jets.

Last season, his chances at playoff redemption were again thwarted by a knee injury. Palmer tore his ACL after leading Arizona to a 9-1 start to the season, and the Cardinals were one-and-done in the playoffs without him, losing to the Panthers in the wild-card round.

That meeting could give the Cardinals an edge as they return to Bank of America Stadium.

"At least we're familiar with the place," said defensive tackle Calais Campbell. "I have a lot of respect for Carolina, but I am very eager for the chance to beat them. One good game gets you to the Super Bowl."

- With h/t to NFL.com