Cardinals Soar Past Saints 20-13 in Thrilling Season Opener

The Arizona Cardinals kicked off their 2025 season with a convincing 20-13 victory over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, showcasing the improved chemistry and offensive continuity that fans had hoped to see. With quarterback Kyler Murray returning healthy and the same offensive system in place, the Cardinals looked ready to take that next step forward.

First Quarter: Defensive Battle Sets the Tone

Both teams started cautiously in what became a defensive slugfest early on. The Cardinals struck first when kicker Chad Ryland connected on a 42-yard field goal, capping off a methodical drive that saw Murray complete short passes to tight end Trey McBride and running back James Conner. The Saints struggled to find their rhythm with second-year quarterback Spencer Rattler, who had taken over the starting role despite going 0-6 in his starts last season. Arizona led 3-0 after the first quarter.

Second Quarter: Offensive Fireworks Ignite

The second quarter brought the excitement fans were waiting for. The Saints answered quickly when veteran running back Alvin Kamara punched in an 18-yard touchdown run, showcasing the explosiveness that made him such a valuable safety blanket for the young quarterback. New Orleans took a 7-3 lead.

But the Cardinals responded with authority. Murray found sophomore sensation Marvin Harrison Jr. for a spectacular 45-yard completion down the right sideline, demonstrating the improved chemistry the coaching staff had emphasized all offseason. The drive culminated with a 1-yard touchdown pass to Harrison Jr., putting Arizona back on top 10-7.

After a Saints field goal tied the game at 10-10, the Cardinals closed the half with another impressive drive. Murray completed passes to McBride for 25 and 4 yards before finding Conner for a 4-yard touchdown reception. The veteran running back showed his versatility, finishing the game with 39 rushing yards on 12 carries plus 4 receptions for 5 yards and the crucial touchdown. Arizona took a 17-10 lead into halftime.

Third Quarter: Field Goals and Missed Opportunities

The third quarter belonged to the kickers and defenses. Arizona extended their lead to 20-10 with a 50-yard field goal by Ryland after a long drive stalled in the red zone. The Saints had their chances but couldn't capitalize, with kicker Blake Grupe missing a 37-yard field goal attempt wide left. Both teams struggled to sustain drives as the defenses tightened up.

Fourth Quarter: Saints Rally Falls Short

New Orleans made things interesting in the final quarter, mounting a late drive that resulted in a 28-yard field goal to cut the deficit to 20-13. The Saints' passing attack finally found some rhythm, with Chris Olave and Juwan Johnson making key catches to move the ball downfield.

With time running out, the Saints got the ball back and drove into Cardinals territory. However, Arizona's defense stood tall when it mattered most, forcing incomplete passes on the final three plays to preserve the victory.

Looking Ahead

This win gives the Cardinals exactly what they hoped for – a strong start with their returning core healthy and productive. Murray threw for 163 yards and 2 touchdowns while completing 21 of 29 passes, though he was sacked 5 times. McBride led the receiving corps with 61 yards on 6 catches, continuing his role as Murray's favorite target.

For New Orleans, the loss highlights the challenges of starting a young quarterback. Despite the defeat, there were positive signs in Rattler's performance and Kamara's continued excellence.

The Cardinals will look to build on this momentum when they face their next opponent, while the Saints will regroup and work on the timing issues that plagued them in this opener. Both teams showed flashes of potential in what promises to be an exciting 2025 season.