Jacoby Brissett snaps Cardinals losing streak with 3-TD night; Kyler Murray still starter upon return

Jacoby Brissett delivered the kind of performance that reminded everyone why he’s one of the NFL’s most dependable veterans, leading the Arizona Cardinals to a much-needed 31-20 victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Monday night. The win snapped a frustrating four-game losing streak and gave head coach Jonathan Gannon’s squad a badly needed jolt of confidence. Brissett, starting in place of the injured Kyler Murray, threw for three touchdowns and no interceptions, managing the offense with poise and precision from start to finish.

It was the Cardinals’ most complete performance of the season — balanced, disciplined, and explosive in key moments. Brissett spread the ball around masterfully, completing passes to seven different receivers and maintaining composure under pressure. His ability to stay patient in the pocket and make smart reads was exactly what Arizona needed after weeks of stalled drives and missed opportunities.

Two of Brissett’s touchdowns went to tight end Trey McBride, who continues to blossom into one of the league’s most promising young offensive weapons. The chemistry between the pair was apparent all night, with Brissett repeatedly finding McBride in tight windows on third down and in the red zone. The connection provided a spark that Arizona’s offense had been sorely lacking during its losing skid.

The Cardinals’ offensive line also deserves credit for the turnaround. After struggling to protect in recent weeks, they held firm against a fierce Dallas pass rush led by Micah Parsons. Brissett was sacked only once and had plenty of time to execute the game plan. That stability up front allowed Arizona to maintain offensive rhythm and keep the Cowboys’ defense guessing.

On the ground, James Conner continued his steady production, grinding out tough yards and keeping the chains moving. His physical running style helped set the tone early and complemented Brissett’s efficient passing game. Arizona’s commitment to balance — a long-missing element in their offense — forced Dallas to respect both phases, opening up opportunities for play-action and big plays downfield.

Defensively, the Cardinals rose to the occasion as well. The unit played with renewed energy, creating turnovers and limiting Dak Prescott’s rhythm. Cornerback Garrett Williams’ second-quarter interception was a turning point, halting a promising Dallas drive and setting up one of Brissett’s touchdown passes. It was the kind of complementary football Arizona’s coaching staff has been preaching since training camp.

After the game, Gannon praised Brissett’s leadership, calling his presence “steadying” and “professional.” “Jacoby gave us exactly what we needed tonight — confidence, control, and composure,” Gannon said. “He’s a true pro who’s been ready for this moment.” It’s hard to overstate how valuable that steadiness is for a young Cardinals team still finding its identity.

Despite Brissett’s standout performance, Gannon made it clear that Kyler Murray remains the team’s starter when healthy. “Kyler’s our guy,” the coach reiterated. “Jacoby knows his role and has handled everything like a consummate teammate. But tonight, he earned every bit of this win.” That message aligns with the team’s long-term plan — developing consistency while keeping Murray as the franchise cornerstone.

Brissett himself echoed those sentiments postgame, deflecting praise toward his teammates. “This was about us playing together,” he said. “I just wanted to do my part and help get us back on track.” His humility, combined with his execution, underscored why coaches around the league trust him as one of the best backup quarterbacks in the game.

For Arizona fans, the victory was more than just a win in the standings — it was a glimpse of what this team can look like when all the pieces click. The offense operated with tempo and confidence, the defense played opportunistic football, and the team’s overall energy felt renewed. Even if Brissett returns to the sidelines once Murray is cleared, the ripple effect of this performance could last for weeks.

The Cardinals’ locker room celebrated the win with a sense of relief and optimism, knowing they can build off this performance heading into the second half of the season. “We needed this,” McBride said. “It’s proof that we can compete with anybody when we execute.”

For Brissett, Monday night was a reminder that readiness matters. In a league where opportunity can come without warning, he stayed prepared — and when called upon, delivered one of the Cardinals’ most complete wins of the year. And while Kyler Murray remains the starter, Brissett’s performance was a timely affirmation that behind Arizona’s franchise quarterback stands a veteran who can steady the ship when it matters most.