The San Francisco 49ers suffered another tough loss against the Arizona Cardinals, letting a 13-point lead slip away. A fumble by Jordan Mason late in the game, followed by a missed blitz pickup, cost the 49ers a potential game-clinching touchdown and ultimately led to their defeat. Despite there still being plenty of games left in the season, the 49ers’ back-to-back losses after holding double-digit leads in the second half are cause for concern. The team now faces a challenging matchup against the division-leading Seattle Seahawks on a short turnaround.
Special teams played a significant role in the game, with the 49ers losing kicker Jake Moody to a right ankle injury that could have long-term consequences. Moody sustained the injury during a tackle attempt on a kickoff, leaving the team without their starting kicker for the remainder of the game. Despite the setback, the 49ers managed to score a touchdown on a blocked punt return for the first time in 15 years. Punter Mitch Wishnowsky stepped in as the replacement kicker, helping the team maintain a lead until the late collapse against the Cardinals.
Defending Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray proved to be a tough task for the 49ers’ defense. Murray’s dynamic playmaking ability caused problems for the defense, as he rushed for 86 yards and threw for 195 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Despite the defense finding some success in containing Murray at times, he ultimately led the Cardinals on a game-winning drive that resulted in a field goal in the final minutes of the game. Murray’s athleticism and ability to make plays with both his arm and legs were key factors in the Cardinals’ comeback victory.
Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk had a standout performance for the 49ers, showcasing his skills after signing a contract extension earlier in the season. Aiyuk’s eight catches for 147 yards were a significant contribution to the team’s passing game, with quarterback Brock Purdy relying on him as a key target throughout the game. Aiyuk’s performance was a bright spot for the offense, as he demonstrated the capabilities that led to the team investing in him long-term. With Deebo Samuel and Jauan Jennings having their moments in previous games, Aiyuk’s breakout performance added another dynamic to the 49ers’ passing attack.
Despite moments of success, the 49ers’ inability to close out games against tough opponents like the Cardinals raises questions about the team’s overall outlook for the season. The pattern of letting leads slip away late in games could be indicative of larger issues that need to be addressed moving forward. With key matchups against division rivals looming on the schedule, the 49ers will need to find ways to finish games strong and avoid the mistakes that have plagued them in recent weeks. As the season progresses, the team will need to rally and overcome adversity to stay competitive in a tough NFC West division.
