San Francisco, CA – The Arizona Cardinals pulled off a dramatic 27-24 comeback victory against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 5, handing the 49ers their first loss of the season. A late-game surge, led by quarterback Kyler Murray, lifted the Cardinals past the 49ers, leaving Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers frustrated with missed opportunities.
Game Highlights and Key Stats
The San Francisco 49ers started strong with quarterback Brock Purdy continuing his solid play, throwing for 275 yards and two touchdowns. Nick Bosa was a force on defense, racking up two sacks and applying constant pressure on Murray throughout the first half. The 49ers built a 17-7 lead by halftime, with Mitch Wishnowsky playing a key role in flipping field position, but the second half told a different story.
The Arizona Cardinals mounted a comeback in the third quarter, led by Kyler Murray, who threw for 220 yards and ran for an additional 55, keeping the 49ers’ defense off balance. Murray connected with wide receiver Rondale Moore for a crucial 50-yard touchdown to bring the game within reach. Kyzir White also stood out for Arizona’s defense, contributing an interception that set up a key field goal.
The game’s decisive moment came in the final two minutes when the Cardinals capitalized on a missed 45-yard field goal attempt by 49ers kicker Jake Moody. Murray led the Cardinals down the field, setting up a game-winning 20-yard touchdown pass to Zach Ertz, sealing Arizona’s 27-24 win.
Kyle Shanahan’s Reaction and Jake Moody Update
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed frustration with the loss, particularly with the team’s inability to close out the game despite holding a significant lead. Shanahan commented, “This one is extremely frustrating. We had chances to finish, and we didn’t take advantage.”
The game also spotlighted kicker Jake Moody, who missed a crucial field goal that would have extended the 49ers’ lead late in the fourth quarter. Shanahan provided a post-game update on Moody, hinting that the team may explore other options at the kicker position.
NFC West Standings and Playoff Implications
The loss drops the 49ers to a 4-1 record, tightening the race in the NFC West as the Cardinals improve to 3-2. This result reshuffles the division standings, with both teams eyeing crucial matchups in the coming weeks.
Looking Ahead
The 49ers have little time to dwell on the loss, as they prepare for a Thursday night showdown against the Seattle Seahawks. Meanwhile, the Cardinals will look to build on their momentum as they take on the Los Angeles Rams next week.
Where to Watch
Fans can catch the 49ers vs Seahawks and Cardinals vs Rams games on Fox and NFL Network. Replays of the thrilling Cardinals vs 49ers game are available on NFL streaming platforms.