The Arizona Cardinals vs Buffalo Bills played an exciting first-week game to start off the 2024 NFL season. Two clubs with different styles and different season goals made this game very anticipated. With quarterback Josh Allen leading the way, the Bills sought to establish their dominance in the AFC, while the Cardinals, under new head coach Jonathan Gannon, wanted to make a statement.
Before-the-game Expectations
One of the favorites to compete for the Super Bowl coming into the season was the Buffalo Bills. The Bills had high expectations because of their explosive offense, which is still headed by dual-threat quarterback Josh Allen, and their strong defense, which is led by Von Miller and Tre’Davious White. The club was desperate for vengeance following a successful 2023 year in which they made it to the postseason but missed out on the Super Bowl.
On the other side, the Arizona Cardinals were in a period of transition. After a disappointing 2023 season, the Cardinals underwent significant changes, including the hiring of Jonathan Gannon as head coach. With Kyler Murray returning from injury and a retooled roster, Arizona was seen as a team with potential but also one with many question marks.
Halftime: A defensive struggle
Both defenses made an impression early in the contest. Josh Allen was contained early on by the Cardinals defense, which had been the main emphasis of Gannon’s offseason training. They were able to recover a fumble, force a couple of punts, and provide Arizona’s first scoring opportunity. The Cardinals took an early lead as Kyler Murray took advantage and found Marquise “Hollywood” Brown for a touchdown pass.
With a deliberate drive in response, Buffalo relied on James Cook’s running game and short passes to Stefon Diggs. The game was tied when Allen found tight end Dawson Knox for a score. Both teams were tied at 10 points at the end of the first half, which set up an intriguing second half.
Second Half: Bills’ Offensive Explosion
The third quarter saw the Bills’ offense come alive. Josh Allen began to find his rhythm, making big plays downfield. He connected with Diggs for a 50-yard touchdown pass, showcasing their chemistry. The Bills’ defense also stepped up, intercepting a pass from Kyler Murray that led to another quick score—a rushing touchdown by Cook. Suddenly, the Bills were up 24-10.
The Cardinals tried to mount a comeback in the fourth quarter. Murray led a quick drive that ended with a touchdown pass to rookie wide receiver Michael Wilson, cutting the deficit to seven points. However, Buffalo’s defense tightened up in the closing minutes, sacking Murray twice and forcing a turnover on downs to seal the victory.
Important Notes
Josh Allen’s MVP Profile: Throwing for more than 300 yards and three touchdowns, Allen was every bit the MVP contender. He had excellent command of the offense and his ability to make plays with both his arms and legs.
Growing Pains for the Cardinals: The Cardinals had some promising moments, especially with Murray’s playmaking and defense. They did, meanwhile, also display the inconsistency that frequently befalls a team undergoing change. Though the offense requires more time to come together, Gannon’s impact on the defense was evident.
Buffalo’s defense, which some were concerned about heading into the season because of injuries, proved to be a key factor in the victory.
The season began with a statement win for the Bills over the Cardinals, 31-17. Although Buffalo appeared to be a strong candidate for the Super Bowl, the Cardinals demonstrated their ability to compete but still need improvement. While Arizona Cardinals vs Buffalo Bills both teams advance, the Bills will try to hold onto their momentum and the Cardinals will want to build on their win and keep getting better. This showdown in Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season was a terrific way to start things off.
