After 2 1/2 seasons of being largely ignored, the Arizona Cardinals are back in the playoff race.
The Cardinals (4-4) pulled off a 28-27 win over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, thanks to another impressive fourth quarter from Kyler Murray, who led two long touchdown drives. Arizona didn’t take the lead until Chad Ryland kicked a 34-yard field goal as time ran out.
Murray passed for a season-high 307 yards.
“He’s got really good poise,” said second-year coach Jonathan Gannon. “There were some big-time, instinctive feel plays.”
This win marks the Cardinals’ first back-to-back victories since 2021. They are now tied for first place in the NFC West with the 49ers and Seahawks, giving them real hopes for the postseason after two straight 4-13 seasons.
More importantly, they’re developing a quality that excites Gannon, especially in crucial moments.
“Confidence,” Gannon said. “Confidence in themselves. And they know they have a chance to win with our quarterback. So if they just do their job, and max out, our quarterback can get it done. So there’s a lot of confidence when they trot out there.”
While Murray has played well, he isn’t the only reason for the Cardinals’ recent success. Tight end Trey McBride and rookie receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. both had over 100 yards receiving on Sunday, and James Conner made some key runs late in the game.
Arizona has faced one of the toughest schedules in the NFL this season, making their 4-4 record even more impressive. As November begins, the Cardinals are improving, even if Gannon isn’t ready to celebrate just yet.
“Winning’s hard,” Gannon said. “Our guys know it takes all week to get yourself ready to go and give yourself a chance to win.”
