Defense Key In Arizona Cardinals Win In Dallas
By Cody Fincher
The Arizona Cardinals are now 7-1 after beating the Cowboys in Dallas 28-17. Defense was the key factor in this win for Arizona. The win now gives the Cardinals the best record in the NFL.
The Dallas Cowboys came into this game with the top offensive rushing attack in the NFL, thanks to great play from the offensive line and the extraordinary play from running back DeMarco Murray. The Cowboys would also be without Tony Romo in this game as he suffered a back injury against Washington last week.
The Arizona defense would take advantage of backup quarterback Brandon Weeden by picking him off twice, a critical one was hauled in by Tyrann Mathieu in the red zone when the Cowboys were threatening to score.
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The Arizona Cardinals run-defense showed up in a major way as DeMarco Murray, the NFL’s leading rusher, wasn’t really able to get it going. Murray carried the ball 19 times for 79 yards and didn’t score a touchdown. Murray had rushed for at least 100 yards in every game this season up until this one. The Arizona Cardinals defense only allowed one offensive touchdown in the matchup.
Carson Palmer struggled out of the gate, throwing an early interception that rookie Tyler Patmon ran back for a touchdown. Palmer settled down after that throwing for 249 yards and three touchdowns. Larry Fitzgerald led the way in the receiving game with seven catches for 70 yards. Andre Ellington, John Carlson, and Jaron Brown all had receiving touchdowns in this game.
The running attack was also performing at a high level in this game. Andre Ellington carried the ball 21 times for 95 yards and seemed to have his way with the Dallas defense. Former Arizona State running back Marion Grice found his way into the end zone for his first career NFL rushing touchdown. His goal line score really helped seal the deal.
The Arizona Cardinals will return home to University of Phoenix Stadium next week to play the St. Louis Rams. Arizona will look to get its 8th win on the year and stay on top of the NFC West.