State Farm Stadium | Arizona Cardinals
State Farm Stadium | Arizona Cardinals
Trey McBride, a key player for the Cardinals, expressed the significance of their final game of the 2024 season. "This game means everything to us," he stated. Despite both the Cardinals (7-9) and 49ers (6-10) having little at stake in this season finale, players are motivated to prove themselves.
McBride highlighted the importance of playing against a team that reached the Super Bowl last year. "You win your last game, and you have that momentum and that confidence going into the offseason," he said. The Cardinals' identity was shaped by important games in 2023, including wins against the Steelers and Eagles, even though they were out of playoff contention early on.
Cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting emphasized ending on a positive note as crucial for building hope for future seasons. Coach Jonathan Gannon focused on building confidence rather than relying solely on momentum from past victories. A win against an NFC West opponent could give them a .500 division record and a series sweep over the 49ers for the first time since 2021.
Defensive lineman L.J. Collier saw potential and resilience in his teammates despite starting his tenure with an injury. He believes winning now will set a strong foundation for next year. "There's a lot of guys in here who still care," Collier remarked.
The outcome won't change their playoff absence but can provide much-needed morale before offseason preparations begin. McBride concluded, "This is our last opportunity we have to give it everything we got."
In related news, State Farm Stadium's roof is expected to be open for Sunday's game, with temperatures forecasted at 70 degrees.