THE STORY: MINNEAPOLIS — The Cardinals outplayed the Vikings most of the game Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium, a dramatic turnaround from the previous week’s loss in Seattle.
Despite leading the entire game, the Cardinals gave up a 5-yard touchdown pass from Sam Darnold to running back Aaron Jones with 1:13 left, and the extra point provided the winning point in a harsh 23-22 loss.
The Cardinals sacked Darnold five times and Arizona outgained Minnesota, 406 yards to 273.
The Cardinals looked like they would be able to ice the game after getting to a first-and-goal at the Minnesota 5 and holding a three-point lead with less than five minutes left. But tight end Tip Reiman was called for a false start and then Kyler Murray took a 15-yard intentional grounding penalty, essentially turning it into a field goal-only opportunity.
Chad Ryland kicked the field goal for a 22-16 lead, but the Vikings had 3:20 left on the clock for their own touchdown opportunity. They took advantage.
On the final drive, the Cardinals had a fourth down to keep the drive alive, but Murray threw his second interception of the game to end Arizona’s hopes.
More to come on azcardinals.com.
