Cardinals Snap Losing Streak Against Cowboys
The Arizona Cardinals broke their five-game losing streak with a 27-17 win over the Dallas Cowboys. Starting the season strong at 2-0, the Cardinals have now improved to 3-5, while the Cowboys, who suffered a significant defeat to the Denver Broncos last week, also stand at 3-5-1 as they head into their bye week.
All eyes were on the Cowboys given their recent performance, but the Cardinals were equally in need of a win to boost morale and keep their playoff hopes alive. With Kyler Murray sidelined due to a toe injury, Jacoby Brissett took the reins once again for Arizona, showing he was up for the challenge, especially with Marvin Harrison Jr. by his side.
Harrison had a standout performance, particularly in the first half, making seven catches for 96 yards and scoring a touchdown that showcased his skill by leaving cornerback Daron Brand flat-footed.
Meanwhile, Dak Prescott and the Cowboys’ offense, which had been averaging over 30 points per game this season, struggled against the Cardinals’ defense. They stumbled out of the gate, unable to convert on their first drive and ending up scoreless.
After a Cowboys punt, Harrison’s touchdown pushed the score to 10-0, but Dallas hit another snag when tight end Jake Ferguson fumbled, cutting short another promising drive. However, the special teams got on the board when Sam Williams blocked a punt, recovering it in the end zone for a touchdown.
Brissett answered back quickly, leading the Cardinals on an impressive 74-yard drive that finished with a rushing touchdown from him. As the third quarter kicked off, Michael Wilson made a significant catch and ran 50 yards into Cowboys territory, allowing tight end Trey McBride to extend the lead to 24-7 with a touchdown reception.
Dallas managed to add a field goal and Prescott connected with Ryan Flournoy for another touchdown, narrowing the gap to 10 points. Given Arizona’s recent close losses, it felt like there was still a chance for Dallas to turn the game around.
Despite a much-needed defensive stand from Dallas, it was the Cardinals who turned the tide with an important play late in the game. Prescott was pressured and threw to running back Javonte Williams, who was quickly swarmed by defenders. The ball was knocked loose, but Hakeem David-Gaither pounced on it before it could drift away.
In the end, Brissett finished with 21 completions on 31 attempts for 261 yards and two touchdowns, all while enduring five sacks. McBride added five receptions for 55 yards, and Emari DeMercado led the rushing attack with 79 yards on 14 carries.
For the Cowboys, Williams totaled 83 yards on 15 carries, though turnovers stifled their offense. Prescott ended up going 24-for-39 for 250 yards, with one touchdown and an interception during the final drive. CeeDee Lamb recorded seven catches for 85 yards, while George Pickens added six receptions for 79 yards.
