Arizona Cardinals’ Monday Night Football Legacy
The Arizona Cardinals have a storied history on Monday Night Football, marked by both heart-wrenching defeats and unforgettable victories. From their inaugural game in the late ’80s to their recent matchups, the Cardinals have contributed to the fabric of this iconic NFL tradition.
The Birth of Monday Night Football
In the 1960s, NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle sought to broaden the league’s appeal beyond the traditional Sunday games. His vision led to the creation of Monday Night Football, which quickly became a staple of American television. As part of this evolution, the Arizona Cardinals joined the ranks of teams participating in the weekly showcase when they relocated to Arizona for the 1988 season. Over the years, they have faced off against various opponents, with the Dallas Cowboys emerging as a frequent rival.
Moments to Remember
The Cardinals have experienced a wide array of memorable moments on Monday nights. Here are some highlights from their history:
First Monday Night Game: A Close Call
In their first Monday Night Football appearance on September 12, 1988, the Cardinals faced the Cowboys in Sun Devils Stadium. Despite a valiant effort, Arizona fell short, losing 17-14. A pivotal moment came when head coach Gene Stallings opted for a trick play on a field goal attempt, resulting in a failed conversion that ultimately cost the team the game by a mere three points.
A Historic Victory
Fast forward to October 19, 2020, when the Cardinals delivered their most significant Monday Night win, crushing the Cowboys 38-10. With Dak Prescott out due to injury, Arizona capitalized on the moment, showcasing a powerful offensive performance. Running back Kenyan Drake shone, rushing for 164 yards and two touchdowns, while Kyler Murray continued his impressive track record in AT&T Stadium. The victory was marked by explosive plays, including an 80-yard touchdown pass to Christian Kirk.
A Night to Forget
Conversely, the Cardinals faced a crushing defeat on November 21, 2022, against the San Francisco 49ers in Mexico City, losing 38-10. This game not only marked their worst Monday Night loss but also signaled the unraveling of their season. The absence of Kyler Murray was felt deeply as the 49ers seized the opportunity to dominate. Adding to the chaos, offensive line coach Sean Kugler was fired due to a serious accusation just hours before the game.
The Infamous Rant
One of the most memorable moments in Cardinals history came during a post-game press conference on December 10, 2006. After a heartbreaking loss to the Chicago Bears, head coach Dennis Green delivered an explosive tirade that has since echoed through NFL lore. “They are who we thought they were! And we let them off the hook!” became an iconic phrase, symbolizing the frustration of a team that had squandered a 20-point lead against an undefeated opponent.
The Turning Point
Most recently, the Cardinals faced the New England Patriots on December 12, 2022, in a game that had significant ramifications for the team’s future. A devastating ACL injury to quarterback Kyler Murray during the first drive set the tone for a seven-game losing streak, ultimately leading to the firing of head coach Kliff Kingsbury. Murray’s absence left a void that impacted both his performance and the team’s overall trajectory.
A Fractured Fanbase
Since being drafted in 2019, Murray has been a polarizing figure among Cardinals fans. His injury and subsequent struggles have only intensified the debate about his future in Arizona. While he remains a dynamic player with the ability to evade defenders, he has yet to replicate the success he achieved in his breakout 2020 season, leaving fans and analysts to ponder what lies ahead for the young quarterback.
As the Cardinals prepare for their next Monday Night Football matchup, they carry with them a legacy defined by both triumph and turmoil, illustrating the unpredictable nature of the game and the deep connections it fosters within the community.
