In Santa Clara, California, Kyler Murray led the Arizona Cardinals to a thrilling 24-23 victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday. Murray’s standout performance included a long touchdown run in the first quarter and two crucial scoring drives in the fourth quarter to secure the win. His 2-yard touchdown pass to Elijah Higgins early in the final quarter narrowed the deficit to 23-21, and he later orchestrated a drive that ended with Chad Ryland’s 35-yard field goal with 1:37 left on the clock, giving the Cardinals the lead.
San Francisco’s Brock Purdy faced pressure from the Arizona defense, resulting in his second interception of the game. Jalen Thompson’s hit caused Purdy to throw a floater that was intercepted by Kyzir White. This defeat marked the second time this season that the 49ers blew a double-digit lead in the fourth quarter against a division rival, following a similar loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 3. Under coach Kyle Shanahan, the 49ers have experienced six blown double-digit leads in the regular season and playoffs, and are now 0-2 in division games this year.
Murray’s multifaceted performance included 195 passing yards, a touchdown pass, and 82 rushing yards. Despite the 49ers having multiple opportunities, they only managed to score one offensive touchdown on six drives that reached the end zone. A critical moment came when Jordan Mason lost a fumble in the fourth quarter, allowing the Cardinals to stay within two points before Murray led the winning drive.
Both teams suffered injuries during the game, with Cardinals’ RG Will Hernandez leaving in the fourth quarter due to a knee injury. For the 49ers, K Jake Moody departed in the second quarter with a right ankle injury, and P Mitch Wishnowsky suffered an injury while attempting a tackle on a kick return. Safety Talanoa Hufanga also left the game in the first half with a wrist injury.
Looking ahead, the Cardinals will host the Miami Dolphins next Sunday, while the 49ers will face the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday night. The intense matchup between the Cardinals and the 49ers highlighted the competitive nature of NFC West division games in the NFL.
