Arizona Cardinals Fans: Have Sunday’s Victory Over the 49ers Changed Your Faith in the Team?

TEMPE, Ariz. — The Arizona Cardinals shocked fans and analysts alike with a stunning second-half comeback, defeating the San Francisco 49ers 24-23 on Sunday. This victory came just one week after a disheartening 42-14 loss to the Washington Commanders.

Initially, the odds were stacked against the Cardinals, with many betting platforms predicting a loss by more than a touchdown. Trailing 23-10 at halftime, the momentum shifted dramatically in the second half as the Cardinals rallied to clinch a narrow victory.

Head Coach Jonathan Gannon commended the team’s resilience, indicating that each phase of play contributed to the win. “Good battle. Thought we showed resilience. All three phases had a hand in it. Made the corrections from the game and on to Green Bay,” he said.

Linebacker Mack Wilson likened the contest to a boxing match, where the Cardinals ultimately landed the knockout punch. “It definitely felt like a boxing match. They had the upper hand the whole game. Second half we came out and threw some punches,” he elaborated.

Highlights from the game included Kyler Murray’s impressive 50-yard touchdown run, clocked at 22 miles per hour, reflecting his explosive speed. Gannon emphasized the importance of that play, acknowledging its impact.

In discussing the team’s reliance on running back James Conner, Gannon expressed unwavering confidence: “I have full trust in James. He’s an asset that we have that not a lot of people have … he goes about his business and he works.”

A pivotal moment in the game came when linebacker Jesse Luketa forced a late fumble, showcasing the team’s determination. Wilson recounted the moment, revealing that Luketa had been assured of making that play. “When I saw him punch it out, I made sure to go secure it,” he added.

Chad Ryland’s game-winning field goal capped the game, drawing memories from an earlier missed kick last season against the Giants. Wilson, who played with Ryland in New England, celebrated the rookie’s redemption and composure in a high-pressure moment.

With this win, the Cardinals’ odds have shifted for their upcoming matchup against the Green Bay Packers, where they enter as less than a touchdown underdog for the early kickoff.

Phoenix continues to be a hub for professional sports, home to major teams across the NFL, NBA, WNBA, and MLB, as well as multiple high-profile sporting events throughout the year. This vibrant sports culture reinforces the spirited atmosphere surrounding the Cardinals as they seek to build on their recent success.