Recap
3 min read

Arizona Cardinals' Efforts Fall Short Against Detroit Lions in Week 3 Showdown

The Arizona Cardinals faced a challenging matchup in Week 3 of the regular season, concluding with a record of 1-2 after a hard-fought game against the Detroit Lions, who improved their standing to 2-1. The final score stood at 20-13 in favor of the visiting team at State Farm Stadium, despite spirited performances from both sides.


Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson (97) applies pressure to Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Key Moments and Performances


The Cardinals showcased resilience and strategic gameplay throughout the match. Punter Blake Gillikin's impressive punting, including a long punt of 63 yards contributing to an average of 52 yards across five attempts, helped Arizona maintain field position. However, it was not enough to secure victory.


Defensively, the Cardinals were formidable with two sacks and six tackles for loss among their efforts to stifle the Lions' offense. Mack Wilson Sr.'s sack highlighted Arizona's defensive prowess along with Dante Stills', each adding crucial pressure on Detroit's quarterback. Dennis Gardeck made significant contributions as well by securing an interception that he returned for ten yards, alongside defending one pass which showcased his versatility on defense.


Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs (26) scores a touchdown on a run after receiving a lateral from wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

On offense, Kyler Murray threw for 207 yards with a completion rate of 62 percent and connected for one touchdown pass but also suffered an interception that hindered momentum. The rushing attack was led by Murray himself with an impressive average of nine yards per carry over five attempts totaling 45 yards but ultimately failed to find the end zone on ground plays.


Looking Ahead


As they look forward to their next game, Arizona will need to address areas for improvement while building on their strengths. The upcoming home game presents another opportunity for redemption as they host the Washington Commanders at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on September 29th at 4:05 PM EDT. Fans can catch all the action live on FOX as the Cardinals aim to even out their record early in this NFL season.


Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown (14) celebrates his five-yard touchdown reception with quarterback Jared Goff (16) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

Engagement from fans remains high as anticipation builds towards this critical matchup that could set tone for rest of season’s performance trajectory.

Rate the article

Related stories

Arizona Cardinals Dismantle New York Jets with Ground and Air Assault
Recap

Arizona Cardinals Dismantle New York Jets with Ground and Air Assault

3 min read
Arizona Cardinals Dominate Chicago Bears with Ground Game and Defensive Might
Recap

Arizona Cardinals Dominate Chicago Bears with Ground Game and Defensive Might

3 min read
Arizona Cardinals Outmaneuver Miami Dolphins in a Tactical Tug-of-War
Recap

Arizona Cardinals Outmaneuver Miami Dolphins in a Tactical Tug-of-War

3 min read