Kyler Murray and the Arizona Cardinals faced more disappointment in Week 17, losing 13-9 to the Los Angeles Rams in a game that highlighted the team’s ongoing struggles. Murray, who threw for 321 yards and a touchdown, also threw two costly fourth-quarter interceptions, sealing Arizona’s fate and igniting fan backlash over his performance and leadership.
Murray’s Struggles Under Fire
Fans were quick to criticize Murray on social media following the loss, with many questioning his ability to live up to the expectations placed on him as the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. One fan, @BradFowlerPGF, expressed frustration on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“Kyler Murray is the most overrated player in the NFL… Year 6 and only 1 playoff appearance. He was the number 1 overall pick, and he hasn’t lived up to those expectations. Lacks leadership and work ethic. Why does he continue to get a pass?”
The criticisms weren’t unwarranted. With the Cardinals trailing by four late in the game, Murray had an opportunity to lead a game-winning drive. Instead, his first interception on a critical fourth-and-10 stalled Arizona’s momentum. A second interception—a deflected pass in the end zone intercepted by Ahkello Witherspoon with just 37 seconds left—ended any chance of a comeback.
Defensive Effort Wasted
Arizona’s defense turned in a solid performance, limiting the Rams to just one touchdown and keeping running back Kyren Williams to 56 rushing yards. Linebacker Kyzir White led the team with eight tackles, and rookie cornerback Max Melton made a crucial pass deflection late in the game. Despite these efforts, the offense’s inability to capitalize on opportunities left the team short once again.
On social media, fans vented their frustration. One post sarcastically mocked Murray’s apparent lack of focus, saying: “Kyler out there playing COD tryna headshot Trey” via @vladdwavy.
Offensive Highlights and Shortcomings
While the Cardinals’ offense struggled overall, tight end Trey McBride and rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. stood out. The duo combined for 219 receiving yards, including the team’s only touchdown. However, their efforts were overshadowed by a lackluster ground game, especially after James Conner exited early with a knee injury. Arizona also hurt itself with nine penalties for 62 yards, further stalling drives.
This loss marks the Cardinals’ eighth defeat in their last nine games, cementing a season filled with frustration and missed opportunities. Murray’s recent performances have only added to the disappointment. Over his last six games, he has thrown eight interceptions to just five touchdowns, a significant decline from the 12-3 touchdown-to-interception ratio he posted in the first 10 games of the season.
Season in Perspective
With the Cardinals now sitting at 5-11, the season has been a clear letdown. Fans have grown increasingly impatient, as the team appears no closer to turning its fortunes around. Murray, once seen as the franchise’s cornerstone, now faces questions about his consistency and decision-making, particularly in crucial moments.
Despite the setbacks, head coach Jonathan Gannon remains optimistic, acknowledging the frustrations while focusing on the need to address the team’s issues. As Arizona heads into its final game of the season, attention will likely shift to the offseason, where the Cardinals must evaluate their roster and consider steps to fix the glaring problems that have plagued their year.
Future Outlook
While Murray’s talent is undeniable, his late-game errors and declining performance have cast doubt on his ability to lead Arizona to success. For the Cardinals, the path forward requires a serious reassessment of their offensive strategy, discipline, and overall team cohesion. Whether Murray can rebound from this season’s struggles remains to be seen, but for now, the focus will be on regrouping and preparing for a better 2025 campaign.
