A winning return for Kyler Murray who found his arm, his legs, and victory against an Atlanta team where we will have to ask questions.
Arizona Cardinals (2-8) – Atlanta Falcons (4-6): 25-23
For his first game since his major injury, quarterback Kyler Murray (19/32, 6 carries, 282 yards, TD, INT) allows Arizona to win its 2nd victory of the season.
2 minutes from the end of the match, while Atlanta had taken the advantage, the Arizona quarterback took out his superhero costume. His run of more than 15 yards to get the first attempt, then his deep pass to Trey McBride (8 REC, 131 yards) put Arizona in a good position to attempt the winning field goal, achieved by Matt Prater.
Thus, Arizona wins only its 2nd victory of the season. But, she will do good in a difficult season for the Cardinals. By regaining his legs and confidence, Kyler Murray reassured. This could help restart Arizona’s season.
On the Atlanta side, after a good first period, the team suffered in the second half. Hindered by Arizona’s aggressiveness, Arthur Smith and his men failed to find solutions, despite the return of Desmond Ridder (4/6, 50 yards, TD).
With this 6th defeat of the season, Atlanta’s season is far from over. However, to secure a place in the playoffs, we will have to avoid defeats of this type, otherwise we will disappoint again.
First touchdown for Kyler Murray
In this first period, a story of returns. On the Arizona side, Kyler Murray is back. Well protected, the quarterback completes his first pass during the 2nd offensive series to tight end Trey McBride. As the minutes go by, he gains confidence, but lacks precision for Marquise Brown, who could have been a touchdown.
The quarterback may have suffered a torn cruciate ligament. But that doesn’t stop him from running to gain yards, and… scoring his first touchdown in the same way.
Opposite, Atlanta makes few mistakes. The attack is running well, helped by the Cardinals’ defensive penalties (3), and can finally count on Bijan Robinson (22 races, 95 yards, TD), back in shape. Little used in recent weeks, the rookie running back scored (only) his 2nd touchdown on the ground. This was enough for Atlanta to take the lead. Previously, Taylor Heinicke (8/15, 55 yards, TD) had thrown a touchdown pass to Scott Miller. (14-12)
Desmond Ridder back, and almost clutch.
In the second half, change of philosophy. From now on, it is the defenses that take over. The two teams exchange leads. Then, it’s the special teams that make the difference.
Greg Dortch returns a punt for 50 yards, and orbits Clayton Tune for a touchdown on QB sneak. After a 4th unconverted attempt, Atlanta reacted thanks to its defense, with an excellent Nate Lindman. Previously, the linebacker intercepted Kyler Murray, his first interception.
Following a race, Taylor Heinicke found himself on the flank, and gave way to Desmond Ridder. For his return, the Falcons quarterback scored a touchdown on the run, with a failed 2-point conversion for Drake London (3 REC, 36 yards). In the end, this conversion will be fatal for Atlanta which loses.
Tea @AZCardinals win it in Kyler’s return! #ATLvsAZ pic.twitter.com/0zfhp0sGrF
— NFL (@NFL) November 13, 2023
