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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Jess Root

Studs and duds from the Cardinals’ 45-29 loss to the 49ers

The Arizona Cardinals lost on Sunday 45-29 to the San Francisco 49ers. They were competitive but no match for the Niners’ offensive attack.

Brock Purdy had four touchdown passes. Deebo Samuel scored twice. Christian McCaffrey was 187 total yards and three touchdowns.

But who were the Cardinals players to stand out?

There were studs and some duds in the game on Sunday.

Listen to the latest from Cards Wire’s Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify.

 

STUD: RB James Conner

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (6) looks to get around San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward (7) during the second quarter at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Dec. 17, 2023.

Conner had another solid game, rushing for 83 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries. He had a 44-yard run.

STUD: TE Trey McBride

McBride continues his ascension. After the Cardinals had no 100-yard games from tight ends in 34 years, McBride had his second this season. He caught 10 passes for 102 yards on the afternoon and was the only consistent target in the passing game.

DUD: QB Kyler Murray

Murray’s two interceptions crushed the Cardinals’ chances. One was returned for a touchdown.

You can point to the absolute lack of production from the receivers. After all, he was throwing to Greg Dortch and Zach Pascal late in the game. It’s hard to be great that way.

Nonetheless, the Cardinals need more from Murray.

DUD: All the WRs

Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The Cardinals’ receivers combined for four receptions for 20 yards. Hollywood Brown and Michael Wilson each had as many catches as you and I did (zero).

DUD: The Cardinals' pass rush

Dec 17, 2023; Glendale, Ariz, United States; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) throws a pass while pressured by Arizona Cardinals linebacker BJ Ojulari (18) during the third quarter at State Farm Stadium.

For the third straight game, the Cardinals did not generate a sack. They only hit Brock Purdy once the entire game legally.

 

STUD: K Matt Prater

Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Prater made all three of his field goals, including one from 58 yards, giving him eight he has made from at least 50 yards.

He continues to be nails.

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