Arizona Cardinals struggle against Los Angeles Rams in first half

After getting embarrassed a week prior, the Los Angeles Rams came out moving the chains against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday.

Amassing 390 total yards of offense to the Cardinals’ 63, the Rams undoubtedly held the advantage over the home team, leading 20-0 after two quarters of play.

The Rams found success almost immediately, but down in the red zone, Los Angeles’ offense sputtered, converting just one field goal and missing another after having numerous chances to find pay dirt.

The red-zone miscues would eventually end early on in the second quarter for the Rams, who leaned on the chemistry of quarterback Jared Goff and tight end Tyler Higbee for the two-yard score to push the visitors’ lead to 10-0. The tight end position continues to be an issue for Arizona, as the score marked the 13th TD for opposing tight ends. Running back Todd Gurley would add to the lead late in the second quarter with a one-yard plunge to give the Rams the 17-0 edge.

On the other side of the field, the Cardinals had little opportunity to get any momentum going, with the offense losing the possession battle 20:43 to 9:17. Pair that with inefficient third-down play, 0-5, and just three first downs in the half and it’s clear to see why Arizona remains scoreless.

Cardinals rookie QB Kyler Murray finished the half with 67 yards passing on 5-of-9 passing, while the running game failed to get much going. Leading the way in the backfield was Kenyan Drake, posting 19 yards on six carries. Joining him is David Johnson, who recorded his first carry in a ballgame since Week 10 for two yards.

Defensively, cornerback Patrick Peterson and safety Budda Baker led the way for Arizona with 12 tackles combined. Linebacker Chandler Jones and defensive end Jonathan Bullard have also combined for a sack.

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