Cardinals Break 29-Year New Orleans Curse with 20-13 Victory Over Saints in Season Opener
Historic Victory in the Big Easy
The Arizona Cardinals defeated the New Orleans Saints 20-13 in Sunday’s season-opener at the Caesars Superdome, marking the debut of Saints’ Coach Kellen Moore and ending the Saints’ streak of six consecutive opening game victories. This victory was particularly significant as Arizona had not won in New Orleans since 1996, with their last encounter resulting in a 42-34 Cardinals victory in Arizona on October 20, 2022.
Game-Changing Performances
Kyler Murray led the Cardinals to victory, throwing two touchdown passes as they held off the penalty-prone New Orleans team. While the Saints’ defense managed to sack Murray five times, the quarterback demonstrated his mobility with 38 yards rushing. The Cardinals’ offense showcased explosive plays, including a 52-yard carry by Trey Benson and a 45-yard reception by Marvin Harrison Jr., both setting up crucial scores.
Saints’ Struggles
The Saints were hampered by disciplinary issues, accumulating 13 penalties for 89 yards, with many infractions occurring due to improper alignments, shifts, or motion by the offense. Coach Moore addressed these issues, stating, “We got to play at a higher standard,” noting his frustration with the penalties that emerged on game day and put the team in difficult positions.
Late Game Drama
Spencer Rattler, leading the Saints’ offense, threw for 214 yards without turnovers in a commendable effort to rally his team late in the game. Coach Moore praised Rattler’s performance, appreciating his approach and mindset, though the quarterback’s record fell to 0-7 in NFL starts. The Saints had one final opportunity to tie the game, but their last drive ended with an incompletion on fourth-and-10 from the 18-yard line.
Looking Ahead
The Saints will need to regroup quickly, especially after losing starting right tackle Taliese Fuaga to a knee injury in the second half. Their next challenge comes against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, September 14.
