What's Happening?
Kyler Murray, the starting quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals, has been listed as inactive for the Monday Night Football game against the Dallas Cowboys. Coach Jonathan Gannon had previously announced
that Jacoby Brissett would start the game, but there was speculation that Murray might still play a role. Murray has been sidelined since a Week 5 game against the Tennessee Titans due to a foot injury. The Cardinals have struggled without Murray, holding a 1-17 record in games he has not started and finished. The only victory in this stretch was a 28-16 win over the Cowboys in 2023, with Joshua Dobbs as the starting quarterback. Murray, who has a perfect 9-0 record at AT&T Stadium from his high school and college days, will not be able to extend his streak. Other inactives for the Cardinals include cornerback Elijah Jones and linebacker Xavier Thomas. The Cowboys will also be missing key players, including safety Donovan Wilson and running back Jaydon Blue.
Why It's Important?
Kyler Murray's absence is significant for the Arizona Cardinals, as his presence on the field has historically been a key factor in their performance. The team's poor record without him highlights his importance to their offensive strategy. This game against the Cowboys is crucial for the Cardinals, who are looking to improve their standing in the league. The decision to start Jacoby Brissett instead of Murray could impact the team's dynamics and their ability to secure a win. For the Cowboys, facing a Cardinals team without Murray might provide a strategic advantage, potentially making it easier to exploit weaknesses in Arizona's lineup. The outcome of this game could have implications for both teams' playoff prospects and overall season performance.
What's Next?
The Cardinals will need to reassess their strategy moving forward, especially if Murray's absence extends beyond this game. Coach Jonathan Gannon and the team's management will likely evaluate Brissett's performance to determine if he can effectively lead the team in Murray's absence. The Cowboys, on the other hand, will aim to capitalize on the situation and secure a win to bolster their position in the league standings. Both teams will need to address their injury lists and make strategic adjustments as the season progresses.
