Kyler Murray Sparks Cardinals Past Saints in Week 1 Win

The Arizona Cardinals opened their season with a 20 to 13 victory over the New Orleans Saints, thanks to a dynamic performance from Kyler Murray and key contributions from both veterans and rookies. Murray looked like the MVP-level playmaker from 2021, while the Saints’ young quarterback struggled to take the next step.

Kyler Murray Powers Arizona’s Attack

Murray was in full command of the Cardinals offense, completing 21 of 29 passes for 163 yards and two touchdowns while adding 38 rushing yards. New Orleans pressured him heavily with five sacks and 10 total pressures, but Murray escaped danger repeatedly and kept drives alive with both his legs and quick decision-making.

His connection with rookie wideout Marvin Harrison Jr. delivered big early, including a 45 yard strike and a 1 yard touchdown to cap Arizona’s first scoring drive. Tight end Trey McBride became Murray’s most trusted target, hauling in six catches for 61 yards, many of them on key third downs. Murray also added some flair, delivering a highlight-worthy underhand touchdown pass to James Conner.

Although the Cardinals offense cooled off late, managing only three second-half points, Murray’s efficiency and creativity were more than enough to secure a win and set the tone for Arizona’s 2025 campaign.

Spencer Rattler Struggles Against Veteran Defense

The Saints defense played with intensity, but Spencer Rattler’s limitations ultimately cost New Orleans. The second-year quarterback completed 27 of 46 passes for 214 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. He rarely tested Arizona’s secondary downfield and often bailed on his reads under pressure. Many of his throws left receivers exposed to heavy hits, preventing consistent progress.

Alvin Kamara provided the Saints’ lone touchdown early, but Arizona bottled him up as the game went on. The New Orleans defense gave Rattler opportunities to steal the game late. Cameron Jordan, who became the franchise’s all-time sack leader with 1.5 sacks, kept the Saints in position. Rattler had a final shot at a game-tying drive, but a strike to Juwan Johnson in the end zone was knocked loose by Budda Baker, sealing the Cardinals’ win.

Until Rattler can add more explosiveness and poise, the Saints offense will continue to look predictable and limited.

Will Johnson Impresses in NFL Debut

Arizona’s rookie cornerback Will Johnson played just over half the defensive snaps but made his presence felt. He nearly came up with an interception on a deep ball early in the game, a play that appeared to make Rattler hesitant to throw downfield. Later, he delivered a perfectly timed hit on Chris Olave that prevented a key catch.

By the end of the day, Johnson allowed just four receptions for 32 yards on seven targets. His physicality and awareness suggest he could be in line for more playing time as the season unfolds.

By the Numbers

• Kyler Murray completed 8 of 10 passes for 71 yards and two touchdowns against the blitz, a huge improvement from last season.

• Murray targeted receivers behind the line of scrimmage on 31 percent of his throws, completing all nine for 20 yards and a score.

• Murray recorded his 21st career game with at least two passing touchdowns and a passer rating over 100, tying Kurt Warner for third-most in Cardinals history.

The Bottom Line

Kyler Murray reminded everyone why he can change a game single-handedly, and rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. showed why he was drafted so high. Add in strong play from Trey McBride, James Conner, and an emerging rookie cornerback, and Arizona looks ready to compete in a stacked NFC West.

For the Saints, Spencer Rattler’s conservative approach and lack of finishing touch held back a defense that gave him every chance to win. Until he takes a step forward, New Orleans will continue to fall short in games like this.