The Arizona Cardinals and their star quarterback Kyler Murray put on a show Sunday, demolishing the New York Jets 31-6 at State Farm Stadium. Murray’s scintillating performance left coach Jonathan Gannon in awe, declaring him the “best player on the planet” after the game.
Murray’s Record-Setting Day
Kyler Murray’s stat line was nothing short of spectacular. The fourth-year QB completed 91.7% of his passes, the second-highest mark in Cardinals history. He also became the first player in NFL history to complete 85% of his throws with 250+ passing yards and two rushing touchdowns in a single game.
The guys did a hell of a job up front. My job was just put the ball in their hands and let them do what they do and try to get completions and that’s what I did today.
– Kyler Murray on his offensive line’s performance
Highlights of Murray’s Dominance
- Set a new Cardinals franchise record with 17 consecutive completions
- Rushed for two touchdowns, including a crafty play-action fake that fooled the Jets defense
- Completed 12-for-12 passes for 99 yards and a TD in the second quarter alone
- Bounced back from a vicious hit that knocked his helmet off to throw a touchdown three plays later
Murray’s toughness and resiliency were on full display after taking a brutal sack from Jets lineman Quinnen Williams that sent his helmet flying. The former Rookie of the Year popped right back up, gave a thumbs up to the concerned crowd, and proceeded to lead the Cardinals on another scoring drive.
Gannon Gushes Over Murray
Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon couldn’t contain his praise for his star quarterback after the game. “I think the quarterback was the best player on the planet today,” Gannon beamed. “And, so, kudos to him.”
Gannon credited Murray’s success to the team not relying solely on him to carry the load, but also highlighted the QB’s electric playmaking ability. “When he has the ball in his hands, as a defensive guy, anytime he gets a snap you’re hanging onto your you-know-what,” Gannon quipped. “And I thought he was lights out today.”
Building Momentum for the Playoff Push
The dominant win over the Jets marked the Cardinals’ fourth straight victory and fifth in their last six games. At 6-4, Arizona heads into their bye week with plenty of momentum for the final seven-game stretch that includes four crucial NFC West matchups.
I think there’s still meat left on the bone, to be honest with you, but I think we’re trending in the right direction. I think this is a great place for us to be currently going into the bye, knowing that we still can clean up some things and then we got to get ready to go on this push competing for division title and finding a way to put our name in the pot to be in the playoffs.
– Right tackle Kelvin Beachum on the state of the team
With Murray playing at an MVP level and the offense firing on all cylinders, the Cardinals look poised to make some noise down the stretch. If Sunday’s beatdown of the Jets is any indication, this Arizona squad could be a force to be reckoned with come playoff time.
