The Arizona Cardinals have done their best work offensively when they have been able to be balanced and run the ball effectively. In the first half against the Cleveland Browns, they were able to do just that.
They jumped out to a 21-10 halftime lead behind the power of their rushing attack. Against the Browns’ porous run defense that entered the game allowing nearly five yards per attempt, the Cardinals averaged 7.6 in the first half, running the ball 19 times for 145 yards.
Running back Kenyan Drake had 11 carries for 60 yards and scored twice. Quarterback Kyler Murray picked up 53 yards on five rushes and Christian Kirk also had a 28-yard run.
They had 107 rushing yards in the first quarter alone.
The success also opened up the passing game. Murray completed 12-of-15 for 154 yards. He had a touchdown pass and was intercepted once.
Were it not for the interception, the Cardinals might have more points.
Listen to the latest from Cards Wire’s Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Stitcher Radio.
Ep. 251:
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Ep. 250:
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