In a surprising twist, Arizona Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon reaffirmed that Kyler Murray will return as the starting quarterback, even after backup Jacoby Brissett led the team to a 27-17 victory against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday night. This win marked the Cardinals” first since mid-September.
Following the game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Gannon stated, “Nothing”s changed on that,” referring to his decision regarding the starting position. He reiterated that once Murray is fully recovered from the foot injury that has kept him sidelined for the past three games, he will resume his role as the starting quarterback. Gannon explained that Murray”s absence was due to him “just not being healthy enough to go.”
When pressed about Brissett”s recent performances and whether they warranted a change in the starting lineup, Gannon remained firm, saying it was “just how I feel” and offered no further insights into Brissett”s potential to claim the starting job.
In the game against the Cowboys, Brissett delivered an impressive performance, completing 21 of 31 passes for 261 yards and two touchdowns. This achievement marked his third consecutive game with over 260 passing yards. Gannon praised Brissett”s execution and decision-making throughout the contest.
Despite the accolades, Brissett deflected questions about whether he should start again when the Cardinals face the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. “I don”t get into that stuff, man,” Brissett remarked. “I”m just trying to go out here and win games, be a good teammate and do the best that I can when I get my opportunity. That”s all I can ask for.”
In his three starts, Brissett has averaged 256 passing yards per game, with six touchdowns and just one interception. In contrast, Murray has averaged 170 passing yards per game, throwing six touchdowns and three interceptions in his five starts this season. Both quarterbacks have contributed a rushing touchdown, although Murray has a notable edge in rushing attempts and yards.
Statistically, the offense has been more productive under Brissett”s leadership, averaging 25.7 points and 357 yards per game compared to Murray”s averages of 18.8 points and 288.4 yards. Brissett has excelled on third downs as well, with the team converting 56 percent of those opportunities in his starts versus 40 percent in Murray”s.
Brissett”s ability to lead the team effectively has sparked discussions about the shift in offensive rhythm. However, he attributes the team”s improvement to collective efforts rather than personal performance. “I don”t think it”s me. I really don”t,” he said. “I think it”s just everybody gets caught up in the beginning of the season. The good teams in this league find ways to continue to get better, and that”s what we”re doing at this point in the season.”
Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who achieved a personal best with seven receptions during the game, noted Brissett”s strong communication skills, which have helped align the team”s efforts for success. “Just kind of making sure we”re all in the right positions to kind of be successful,” Harrison said, emphasizing Brissett”s role in the offense”s recent positive trajectory.
