After missing the previous two games due to a foot injury, Kyler Murray is gearing up to lead the Arizona Cardinals against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football, as confirmed by coach Jonathan Gannon on Thursday.
Murray, aged 28, last played during a Week 5 matchup against the Tennessee Titans, where he sustained his injury, contributing to the Cardinals’ three consecutive losses after starting the season with two wins against the New Orleans Saints and the Carolina Panthers.
In Murray’s absence, veteran Jacoby Brissett stepped in as quarterback, posting reasonable stats but ultimately losing both games against formidable teams: the Indianapolis Colts and the Green Bay Packers.
Murray’s return is expected to reinvigorate the Cardinals’ ground game, hindered since losing former Pro Bowl running back James Conner to a season-ending injury in Week 3. Previously, the team averaged 118.2 rushing yards with Murray, contrasted sharply with the mere 91 yards per game without him.
The Cowboys, known for struggling against the run, currently rank 29th in rushing yards allowed in the NFL—making Murray’s return especially crucial.
Moreover, Murray’s comeback may lead to increased involvement for second-year wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who saw a notable reduction in targets during the last two games compared to the 32 targets he received during Murray’s preceding five games.
While Murray brings many benefits, his history of turnovers due to holding the ball too long or attempting risky passes poses a concern, as seen in his two interceptions in a prior game with Seattle and a fumble against the Titans.
For both teams, Monday’s game holds significant playoff implications; the Cardinals (2-5) seek their first win since Week 2, while the Cowboys (3-4-1) aim to bounce back from a recent defeat and improve their record.
Interestingly, Murray has a solid Night Football record, displaying a 2-2 win-loss ratio, and remains undefeated at AT&T Stadium, boasting a lifetime record of 9-0 dating back to high school. His last performance at the venue was especially memorable, leading to a decisive 38-10 victory against the Cowboys on October 19, 2020, marking a rare loss in Dak Prescott’s Monday Night Football career.
