Cardinals Triumph in Nail-Biting Finish Against Dolphins, Courtesy of Kyler Murray’s Brilliance

Despite being down by two touchdowns in the final quarter, Arizona Cardinals’ quarterback Kyler Murray didn’t lose faith. He led his team to a thrilling victory by setting up the game-winning field goal by Chad Ryland in the dying moments for the second consecutive week. This brilliant performance overshadowed the return of Tua Tagovailoa from a concussion, as Arizona edged past the Miami Dolphins 28-27 on Sunday.

Murray’s Resilience Powers Cardinals

“I believe in us,” Murray declared. “I want to be the game-changer. With the talent we possess offensively, as long as we maintain our rhythm and execute, we can be one of the top offenses in the league.”

Murray masterminded two scoring drives in the final quarter, overturning the Cardinals’ nine-point deficit. The first culminated in a 2-yard touchdown dash by James Conner, bringing Arizona within 27-25. The second was a meticulously planned 13-play, 71-yard drive that consumed the final 5:01 and concluded with Ryland’s 34-yard kick.

Cardinals’ Receivers Shine

The Cardinals (4-4) enjoyed back-to-back victories for the first time since October 24, 2021, and celebrated the efforts of two 100-yard receivers for the first time since A.J. Green and Christian Kirk accomplished the feat on September 26, 2021. Rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. stunned with 111 yards and a touchdown on six receptions, while tight end Trey McBride led the Cardinals with nine grabs for 124 yards.

Tagovailoa’s Return Not Enough for Dolphins

Tagovailoa, despite throwing for 234 yards, couldn’t save the Dolphins (2-5) from defeat, even though they delivered their best offensive display of the season. He was cleared to return on Monday after doctors determined his recovery from the third known concussion of his career, suffered on Sept. 12 against Buffalo, was complete.

Despite a few hiccups, including a fumble on the opening drive and a snap that went over his head in the third quarter, Tagovailoa was largely impressive, completing 28 of 38 passes.

Dolphins’ Fans Cheer Tagovailoa’s Return

The Dolphins’ faithful gave Tagovailoa a rousing reception and cheered his name after the first scoring drive. His most significant applause, however, came after he scrambled for a first down in the third quarter and skillfully slid to avoid a hit, a move he failed to execute when he was injured in Week 2.

Notable Performances and Injuries

Tyreek Hill caught six passes for 72 yards, his first game with at least 70 yards receiving since Week 1. De’Von Achane rushed for 97 yards and had 50 yards receiving with a 12-yard touchdown catch.

For the first time since Week 5, Murray, who completed 26 of 36 passes for 307 yards, wasn’t sacked. He showcased his agility by dodging Jalen Ramsey’s blitz on Arizona’s first scoring drive, eventually finding Michael Wilson open in the end zone.

Injury-wise, Cardinals’ DL Naquan Jones left in the first quarter with a hand injury but returned in the third. Dolphins’ TE Julian Hill suffered a shoulder injury on a fumble in the first but made a comeback, while S Jevon Holland did not return after a knee injury in the second quarter.

Upcoming Challenges

The Cardinals will host Chicago next Sunday, while the Dolphins face off against Buffalo.