The Arizona Cardinals did not get a win on Sunday but did outperform most expectations in a 23-17 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. They had some strong performances and some that were less than impressive.
Who were the studs and duds from the game?
Stud: Kyler Murray
The rookie did his job, completing 25-of-40 passes for 349 yards. He distributed the ball. He did not turn the ball over. He won over many new fans with his play.
Dud: RT Justin Murray
Murray was serviceable in the season opener but struggled in Baltimore. He was flagged for a false start. He was manhandled consistently. He gave up a sack. It would not be a surprise to see Jordan Mills in the starting lineup next week.
Stud: Larry Fitzgerald
It seems amazing that in his 16th year there would be things he has not yet accomplished in his career, and yet he did. He had five catches for 104 yards. It was the first time in his career he has opened the season with two 100-yard games. And he also now has four catches of at least 40 yards this season. He didn’t have even one in 2018.
Dud: David Johnson
Cardinals fans are all very relieved he did not injure his wrist. However, he was ineffective. He did score the team’s only touchdown but, after 137 total yards from scrimmage against the Lions, he had 15 on Sunday. He had only seven carries for 14 yards and one catch for a whopping one yard.
Stud: Christian Kirk
How about six catches for 114 yards? Kirk had his first career 100-yard performance. His biggest play was a great catch where he was covered and he just took the ball away and ran with it.
Dud: RB Chase Edmonds
Edmonds should have had the opportunity to do some good things while David Johnson was out of the game. However, in 24 snaps, he was given only three touches. Part of that was the fact that the Cardinals just didn’t run the ball. He had one carry for two yards and two catches for 15.
Stud: Damiere Byrd
Byrd tied Kirk for the team lead in receptions with six for 45 yards. He did not do well in returning kicks but he continues to make an impact in the passing game.
Dud: Chandler Jones
Jones did not have a good game. He had only two tackles. He did bat down a pass. But he had no sacks or QB hits. He had no tackles for loss. In fact, on multiple occasions, he left the edge open for Lamar Jackson to run free. It was one of his least impactful games as a Cardinal.
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