Chuba Hubbard's overtime touchdown knocks Cardinals out of playoffs
- The Arizona Cardinals started strong but faced significant injuries and penalties throughout the game.
- Kyler Murray helped the Cardinals force overtime with key touchdowns, including a 20-yard run.
- The Panthers secured their win with Chuba Hubbard's decisive touchdown in overtime, eliminating the Cardinals from playoff contention.
In a late December matchup in 2024, the Arizona Cardinals faced off against the Carolina Panthers, both teams fighting for relevance in an underwhelming season. The game showcased the struggles of the Cardinals, who were hoping to make a playoff run after a promising start that saw them leading the NFC West at 6-4. Unfortunately, injuries plagued their roster, notably with star running back James Conner leaving in the third quarter due to a knee injury, compounding existing issues as the team faced a mounting series of penalties and turnovers throughout the game. The first half was particularly punitive for Arizona, characterized by defensive lapses that allowed the Panthers to capitalize on. Despite trailing by 17 points, the Cardinals rallied in the second half, with quarterback Kyler Murray on both a rushing and passing score to pull his team back into contention. The efforts culminated in a dramatic finish, with a 58-yard field goal by Chad Ryland to send the game into overtime. Both teams battled in the extra frame, but the Panthers ultimately seized the opportunity to win, thanks in large part to Chuba Hubbard’s game-winning touchdown run. As the defeat unfolded, the Cardinals could not recover from their earlier mistakes, which allowed the Panthers to maintain momentum, culminating in their overtime victory. The loss marked the third consecutive year the Cardinals would miss the playoffs, a stark contrast to their early-season performance. Coach Jonathan Gannon reflected on the game, acknowledging the collective mistakes that led to their downfall amidst their struggles. In the greater context, this game underscored the inconsistent season experienced by Arizona. The Cardinals had shown flashes of potential but were unable to maintain that momentum when it mattered most. With the offseason now on the horizon, questions loom regarding team direction, adjustments, and focusing on development, particularly considering the injuries that plagued their current campaign and ultimately their playoff ambitions.