Cardinals Fight Back from Early Deficit Before Faltering Late in 35-16 Loss to the 49ers
SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The Arizona Cardinals fought back from a 21-3 halftime deficit to tie the game in the third quarter, but the San Francisco 49ers scored two touchdowns in the fourth quarter to pull away for a 35-16 victory on Sunday.
Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray threw for 375 yards and two touchdowns, but he was also intercepted twice. Murray’s second interception came in the fourth quarter with the Cardinals trailing by just five points. The 49ers returned the interception for a touchdown to put the game away.
Cardinals’ wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins had a big game, catching 10 passes for 127 yards and a touchdown. Hopkins’ touchdown was a 72-yard catch-and-run in the third quarter that tied the game at 21-21.
The 49ers were led by quarterback Trey Lance, who threw for 238 yards and three touchdowns. Lance also rushed for 41 yards.
49ers running back Jeff Wilson Jr. had a big day on the ground, rushing for 115 yards and a touchdown. Wilson’s touchdown was a 50-yard run in the fourth quarter that put the 49ers ahead 35-21.
The Cardinals’ defense struggled to contain the 49ers’ running game. The 49ers rushed for 202 yards as a team.
The Cardinals (1-3) will look to get back on track next week when they host the Philadelphia Eagles. The 49ers (4-0) will look to continue their winning streak next week when they travel to play the Los Angeles Rams.
Game Highlights
- The 49ers jumped out to a 21-3 halftime lead thanks to a strong running game and a good start from quarterback Trey Lance.
- The Cardinals rallied in the third quarter, scoring 13 unanswered points to tie the game at 21-21.
- The 49ers scored two touchdowns in the fourth quarter to pull away for the victory.
- Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray threw for 375 yards and two touchdowns, but he was also intercepted twice.
- 49ers running back Jeff Wilson Jr. rushed for 115 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis
The Cardinals showed some fight in the third quarter, but they were ultimately outplayed by the 49ers. The Cardinals’ defense struggled to contain the 49ers’ running game, and their offense was unable to make enough plays in the red zone.
The 49ers are one of the best teams in the NFC, and they showed why on Sunday. They have a balanced offense and a solid defense. They are also a well-coached team.
The Cardinals have a lot of work to do if they want to be a contender in the NFC. They need to improve their defense and find a way to get more consistent production from their offense.