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GLENDALE, Ariz. — Just five plays into the matchup on Sunday, the Arizona Cardinals found themselves facing the daunting challenge of two starting linebackers being sidelined due to injuries.
However, rather than falter, the Cardinals rose to the occasion, showcasing an impressive defensive effort. James Conner made a significant impact as he rushed for 110 yards and scored two touchdowns, leading the Cardinals to a commanding 30-17 victory over the New England Patriots.
“It’s really impressive how roles can shift during a game, but our guys stepped up and executed well,” Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon expressed. “We have many versatile players capable of filling in.”
This victory kept Arizona’s hopes alive in the playoff chase, improving their record to 7-7 and ending a three-game losing streak. In contrast, New England’s struggles continued, as they fell to 3-11, marking four consecutive losses.
One highlight of the game was right tackle Jonah Williams scoring his first career touchdown in the NFL. He recovered a fumbled ball in the end zone, giving the Cardinals an early 10-0 lead in the first quarter, all while battling through an illness he had reported before the match.
Chad Ryland contributed with field goals of 49, 35, and 40 yards. Quarterback Kyler Murray had a notable performance, completing 23 of his 30 pass attempts for 224 yards. Tight end Trey McBride shone brightly with nine receptions for 87 yards.
The Cardinals excelled on third down, converting 10 of 15 attempts, while the Patriots struggled, failing to convert on all six of their attempts. “Staying on track was crucial for us,” Murray said. “We become difficult to stop when we maintain possession on third downs.”
Conner extended the lead with a 1-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter, bringing the score to 23-3. Shortly after, the Patriots scored their first touchdown with a 3-yard shovel pass from Drake Maye to Demario Douglas, narrowing the gap to 23-10.
Despite the setback of losing two starting linebackers — Mack Wilson Sr. (concussion) and Jesse Luketa (thigh) — early in the game, the Cardinals’ defense held strong throughout most of the contest.
New England could not capitalize on this advantage until late in the fourth quarter when Maye completed 19 of 23 passes for 202 yards, adding a touchdown and an interception, as well as rushing for a late 5-yard touchdown. The rookie quarterback expressed frustration over the recurring mistakes plaguing the team.
“It’s going to be a long flight back,” Maye remarked. “There’s not much to do besides reflect on the game and think of ways to improve for next time.”
The Patriots finished the game with 311 total offensive yards, but almost half of that came during the final quarter. Coach Jerod Mayo showcased confidence in his offensive unit by choosing to receive after winning the coin toss, hoping to score early.
However, a holding penalty disrupted their opening drive, forcing them to punt and marking the beginning of a series of errors throughout the game. “We’re not in a position to afford setbacks or long-yardage situations that have hurt us this season,” Mayo noted.
With 9:07 left in the third quarter, the Cardinals cemented their lead to 16-3 thanks to Ryland’s third field goal from 40 yards out. Although the Patriots moved 66 yards on the following drive, the Cardinals’ defense made crucial stops at their own 4-yard line, resulting in a turnover on downs.
Late in the third quarter, the Cardinals received a lucky break when Murray’s throw appeared to be intercepted deep in their territory; however, an infraction for roughing the passer saved the possession, allowing Murray to remain in the game after an injury evaluation.
Williams’ touchdown came from a fortunate bounce, as Greg Dortch fumbled near the goal line, but the right tackle managed to recover the ball just before it rolled out of bounds. The drive was set up by Conner’s impressive 53-yard run.
“That play will serve as a valuable teaching moment,” Gannon said, commending Williams’ quick thinking. “If that ball goes out of bounds, we wouldn’t have scored.”
Before halftime, the Cardinals added another field goal, leading 13-3 at the break. Maye completed all ten of his attempts in the first half, but amassed only 71 yards.
Injury reports indicated that for the Patriots, offensive lineman Cole Strange (knee) was activated from IR but did not play, and linebacker Christian Ellis (head) exited during the fourth quarter. For the Cardinals, cornerback Max Melton (shin) left the game but returned, while running back Trey Benson (ankle) was injured in the fourth quarter.
Looking ahead, the Patriots prepare for a matchup against Buffalo next Sunday, while the Cardinals will face Carolina on the same day.
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