(AP) TEMPE, Ariz. The Arizona Cardinals were limping toward the end of a forgettable 2023 season, with fans more focused on the forthcoming draft and free agency than anything on the field.
Then came Sunday.
No, the Cardinals’ 35-31 comeback victory over the Philadelphia Eagles does not change the fact that they are one of the NFL’s worst teams this season. But it was a defining moment for a franchise hoping to establish some on-field momentum in its first season, particularly for coach Jonathan Gannon and general manager Monti Ossenfort.
In fact, if you squint really hard and anticipate a few roster enhancements, the 2024 Cardinals may be far better.
They are 3-4 since franchise quarterback Kyler Murray returned from an ACL injury, and he was brilliant against the Eagles, completing 25 of 31 passes for 232 yards, three touchdowns, and an interception.
“The men did a good job. “They played really well today,” Murray remarked. “We executed and did our thing, and it’s all good.” It’s nice to have that feeling. Obviously, with everything that’s transpired this year, a lot of disappointment, a lot of heartbreaking losses, but trying to finish the season on a high note.”
The Cardinals (4-12) finish their season with another tough game against a Seahawks (8-8) team that still has postseason hopes. Arizona is not going to be a pushover based on their performance last week.
Gannon’s club in his first season has always looked prepared and fought, even if a dearth of skill has been brutally clear on some Saturdays.
“I know our record isn’t what we want it to be, and that falls on me, but they have confidence,” he said. “They are unwavering. And I’m particularly delighted with how they put that effort into practice. They remain together. They concentrate. Pay close attention to the details. Many teams are simply packing it in right now. That is not our team.
