Cardinals Collapse in Final Drive, Fall to Giants 36-24

Key points

• Cardinals led 14-3 after two first-quarter touchdowns but scored only 10 more points for the rest of the game.
• Jacoby Brissett threw three interceptions, including a final-play pick-six returned by Deonte Banks for a touchdown.
• Marvin Harrison Jr. had one reception and one touchdown, his only catch of the game.
• Left tackle Paris Johnson Jr. suffered a biceps injury late in the game and may be out for a while.
• The Cardinals' run game averaged 1.8 yards per carry after the first quarter, compared to 81 yards on nine carries early.

Background

The Cardinals entered Week 4 at 1-2, having shown flashes of improvement but struggled with consistency. This loss extends a three-game skid and raises questions about the team's ability to close games against weaker opponents. The upcoming schedule includes tough matchups against the Lions, Rams, and Chiefs.

How outlets are covering it

Arizona Sports hosts criticized the offensive line and Brissett's decision-making, with Vince Marotta noting the run game's collapse after the first quarter. John Gambadoro questioned the play-calling, arguing the team should have used rookie running back Jeremiyah Love in the final drive. Tyler Drake highlighted the defense's struggles in the second quarter and the team's overall inconsistency. Kellan Olson expressed frustration with the lack of progress under LaFleur, while Luke Lapinski warned of a potentially disastrous season given the tough upcoming schedule. Giants players, including Cam Skattebo, expressed frustration at being underdogs at home, using it as motivation for the win. Jameis Winston had a mixed game with three touchdowns and two interceptions.

Why it matters

The loss puts the Cardinals at 1-3 with a brutal schedule ahead, including games against the Lions, Rams, Broncos, Cowboys, Seahawks, and Chiefs. The team's inability to close games against weaker opponents raises concerns about their competitiveness and the effectiveness of the coaching staff. The injury to Paris Johnson Jr. further weakens the offensive line, potentially impacting the team's ability to protect Brissett and sustain the run game.

What to watch

The Cardinals will face the Detroit Lions in Week 5, followed by a tough stretch of games against divisional and non-divisional rivals. The team must address its offensive inconsistencies and defensive lapses to avoid a disastrous season. The Giants will face the Washington Commanders in Week 5, looking to maintain their momentum at 3-1.