Cardinals in 2025: Unearthing Historic Ways to Lose

Bassyonni

ago 53 minutes

The Arizona Cardinals faced a challenging matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 12 of the 2025 NFL season. Despite generating four turnovers, the Cardinals could not secure a victory, ultimately losing 27-24 in overtime.

Cardinals in 2025: Unearthing Historic Ways to Lose

This defeat marks a continuation of struggles for Arizona, who now holds a record of 3-8 for the season. The team has been particularly notable for its inability to capitalize on opportunities, as evidenced by their historic five-game streak of one-score losses.

Turnover Margin But No Victory

The Cardinals managed to achieve a +4 turnover margin during the game.
This statistic is particularly shocking, given that since 2021, teams posting such a margin were 50-0 before this game.
Despite the turnovers, Arizona converted them into points only twice.
Key plays included Walter Nolen III’s fumble recovery for a touchdown and an interception by Budda Baker leading to a touchdown by Greg Dortch.

Offensive Struggles and Penalties

Arizona’s offensive line faced significant challenges, allowing six sacks and 15 quarterback hits against Jacoby Brissett. In addition, penalties plagued the team again, resulting in seven infractions for 53 yards. These issues prevented the Cardinals from mounting a consistent offensive effort.

Questionable Decisions and Missed Opportunities

In the closing moments of regulation, Arizona seemed poised to take control. A substantial catch by wide receiver Michael Wilson set them up at Jacksonville’s 11-yard line with just 28 seconds left. However, instead of spiking the ball to stop the clock, they opted for a risky play that cost them crucial time.

Head coach Jonathan Gannon later explained that the decision was made to prevent the Jaguars from changing personnel. The strategy, however, limited their options to a 29-yard field goal, which tied the game and pushed it into overtime.

Overtime Outcome

In overtime, the Cardinals faced a critical fourth-and-4 situation. Brissett, who had passed for 317 yards and completed 19 throws, aimed for wide receiver Xavier Weaver. Unfortunately, Jaguars safety Andrew Wingard’s presence transformed the initial favorable matchup into a disadvantage.

The play’s failure ended any hopes of victory, reinforcing the idea that Arizona’s season has been marked by missed opportunities and close calls. With playoff aspirations fading, the focus now shifts to potential offseason changes as they look to rebuild.”