Kyler Murray, the Tom Brady LFG Player of the Game, embodies the swagger of the Arizona Cardinals. In a thrilling match against the San Francisco 49ers, he showcased his electrifying speed and confidence on the field, setting the tone for his team early on.
During the second offensive play, Murray executed a zone read and sprinted 50 yards, marking the longest run of his career. As he raced toward the end zone, he flashed the “peace” sign, a gesture that signaled to his teammates that he was untouchable that day.
James Conner, a fellow Cardinals player, expressed his surprise at Murray’s early celebration. “I didn’t know what [was happening] — if he was celebrating early or what he was doing,” Conner said, who also contributed significantly with 86 rushing yards. “But I was like, ‘Score.’ And that’s what he did. He’s fast enough to do that.”
Murray recognized his scoring opportunity almost immediately. “I knew once Elijah [TE Elijah Higgins] got the block and I cleared those two dudes, I was gone,” he remarked. “There’s not that many times you can do that in the NFL. So to be able to finally hit a long run was good.”
His remarkable speed was highlighted by Next Gen Stats, which clocked him at 21.27 mph, the fastest recorded speed by a quarterback in the last eight seasons. Even Tom Brady, watching from the FOX broadcast, couldn’t help but admire Murray’s agility.
The Cardinals reflected the same confidence Murray displayed, overcoming a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter to secure a 24-23 victory against last season’s Super Bowl runners-up. This marked the first time under coach Kyle Shanahan that the 49ers lost after leading by double digits in the final quarter, ending a 38-0 streak.
Murray’s performance was impressive: he completed 19 of 30 passes for 195 yards and a touchdown, in addition to running for 83 yards and another score. His efforts earned him the title of Player of the Game.
Brady praised Murray, encouraging him to continue his leadership. “Keep being that great leader that you are. I’m really proud of you,” he said, emphasizing the resilience and character displayed by both Murray and the Cardinals.
Head coach Jonathan Gannon acknowledged the team’s effort, stating, “It’s not about me. It’s about the players and the coaches. We’ve got a good group in there. We’ll enjoy this one, and then it’s on to Green Bay.”
This victory also marked a significant moment for the Cardinals, snapping a four-game losing streak against the 49ers. Linebacker Zaven Collins noted that the defense gained confidence from Murray’s performance, which kept the offense in rhythm.
Despite the 49ers’ struggles in the red zone and three turnovers, Murray’s ability to maintain offensive momentum was crucial. Collins highlighted how Murray’s skills allowed the team to escape difficult situations, making incredible throws that impressed everyone.
The Cardinals matched the 49ers’ physicality, dominating the line of scrimmage and turning the game into a battle. “We came out here and we battled,” said linebacker Kyzir White, who sealed the game with an interception. “We got punched in the mouth at times, but we kept punching back and ultimately came out with the win.”
The Cardinals faced additional challenges, including extreme heat and the absence of starting kicker Matt Prater due to injury. Chad Ryland, a recent addition to the practice squad, stepped in and faced early difficulties, including a blocked field goal returned for a touchdown. However, he redeemed himself by making key field goals, including the game-winner.
Murray’s critical fourth-down conversion to rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. kept the winning drive alive, showcasing the trust he has in his teammates. “That just shows you the confidence and trust [I have in him],” Murray said. “On fourth down, who am I going to with a one-on-one? I trust Marvin to win.”
With a record of 2-3, the Cardinals are positioned just behind the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC West, thanks in large part to Murray’s dynamic playmaking ability.
“To come in here and beat a great team like the 49ers is a great way to bounce back,” Murray stated. “I’m proud of the guys. We fought for 60 minutes. It was a hell of a win.”
