49ers vs. Cardinals: A Thrilling End and a Crushing Loss

The Arizona Cardinals pulled off a stunning 24-23 victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, in one of the most dramatic finishes of the NFL season thus far.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows throughout the afternoon. The 49ers took an early lead, but the Cardinals came roaring back, taking a 14-13 lead into halftime.
The second half was just as tight, with both teams exchanging field goals. The 49ers had a chance to take the lead late in the fourth quarter, but Robbie Gould's 46-yard field goal attempt sailed wide left.
The Cardinals then drove down the field and kicked a field goal of their own, giving them a 24-23 lead with just 1:41 remaining in the game.
The 49ers had one final chance to drive down the field and score, but Brock Purdy's pass to George Kittle was intercepted by Cardinals safety Budda Baker, sealing the victory for Arizona.
The loss was a tough one for the 49ers, who have now lost two straight games and dropped to 2-3 on the season. The Cardinals, on the other hand, improved to 2-3 with the win.
Here are a few key takeaways from the game:
* The 49ers' offense struggled for much of the game, mustering just 277 yards of total offense. Purdy completed 21 of 37 passes for 214 yards, but he also threw an interception.
* The Cardinals' defense was able to generate pressure on Purdy all game long, sacking him five times. Chandler Jones was particularly disruptive, finishing the game with three sacks.
* The Cardinals' special teams unit played a major role in the win. Matt Prater kicked a 51-yard field goal in the third quarter, and Andy Lee pinned the 49ers deep in their own territory several times with his punts.
The 49ers will look to bounce back next week when they host the Carolina Panthers. The Cardinals will host the Philadelphia Eagles.