Introduction: A Rivalry of the NFC West
The clash between the Arizona Cardinals and the Los Angeles Rams has become one of the most intriguing rivalries in the NFC West. Over the years, both teams have undergone major transformations — new coaches, evolving rosters, and explosive young talent. The 2024 season added two more dramatic chapters to this rivalry, as both teams fought with grit, precision, and ambition.
This article provides a complete breakdown of the Arizona Cardinals vs Los Angeles Rams match player stats, covering individual performances, team analysis, offensive and defensive summaries, and the overall trends that defined both their encounters during the 2024 season.
Overview of the 2024 Season Rivalry
The Arizona Cardinals and Los Angeles Rams faced each other twice during the 2024 NFL regular season — the first matchup on September 15, 2024, and the second on December 28, 2024. Both games reflected different trajectories for each team.
- First Game (Week 2, September 15, 2024): Cardinals 41 – Rams 10
The Cardinals dominated in every phase, showcasing the explosive connection between Kyler Murray and rookie sensation Marvin Harrison Jr. - Second Game (Week 17, December 28, 2024): Rams 13 – Cardinals 9
The Rams bounced back in a defensive showdown, leveraging discipline and red-zone efficiency to edge out the Cardinals despite being outgained in total yards.
Both games highlighted contrasting identities — Arizona’s offensive creativity versus Los Angeles’ defensive toughness.
Game 1: Arizona Cardinals 41 – Los Angeles Rams 10
Offensive Brilliance by the Cardinals
The Cardinals’ offense was nothing short of spectacular. Led by Kyler Murray, Arizona amassed nearly 490 total yards. The passing game clicked perfectly, with Murray completing 17 of 21 passes for 266 yards and three touchdowns.
Rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. was the star attraction, showcasing his elite route running and hands. He recorded 4 receptions for 130 yards and 2 touchdowns, including a 65-yard bomb that electrified the stadium.
Running back James Conner also contributed effectively, adding 89 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground. The offensive line, often criticized in past seasons, provided a clean pocket and opened gaps against the Rams’ front seven.
Rams’ Struggles on Offense
For the Los Angeles Rams, the game was a nightmare offensively. Quarterback Matthew Stafford faced relentless pressure and was sacked three times. He finished with 186 passing yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions.
The usually dependable Cooper Kupp was limited due to an early injury, managing only 4 receptions for 37 yards. Rookie wideout Puka Nacua, who had been a revelation throughout the season, couldn’t find space against Arizona’s coverage and ended with 3 catches for 48 yards.
Running back Kyren Williams found little success, rushing for just 38 yards on 11 carries. The Rams’ offensive rhythm never developed as the Cardinals’ defense suffocated every attempt to establish momentum.
Defensive Dominance by Arizona
Defensively, the Cardinals were aggressive and disciplined. Linebacker Zaven Collins recorded 8 total tackles and a key sack, while Budda Baker showcased leadership in the secondary with 7 tackles and a crucial interception.
The defensive line, anchored by Jonathan Ledbetter and BJ Ojulari, consistently pressured Stafford, forcing hurried throws and limiting downfield attempts.
Team Stats Summary (Game 1)
| Category | Arizona Cardinals | Los Angeles Rams |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 489 | 245 |
| Passing Yards | 266 | 186 |
| Rushing Yards | 223 | 59 |
| Turnovers | 1 | 3 |
| Time of Possession | 33:18 | 26:42 |
This game served as a defining statement for the Cardinals — their young core had matured, and Kyler Murray was back to his dynamic best.
Game 2: Los Angeles Rams 13 – Arizona Cardinals 9
A Defensive Chess Match
The rematch on December 28, 2024, was a polar opposite encounter. The Cardinals dominated time of possession and yardage, yet failed to convert in critical red-zone situations. The Rams, on the other hand, capitalized on key moments to seal a narrow victory.
Final Score: Rams 13 – Cardinals 9
The Cardinals outgained the Rams 396 to 257 total yards, holding the ball for over 36 minutes. However, their inability to finish drives with touchdowns cost them dearly.
3.2 Cardinals’ Offensive Overview
Quarterback Kyler Murray once again delivered impressive numbers — 33 completions on 48 attempts, totaling 321 yards and a touchdown. Tight end Trey McBride emerged as the focal point of the offense, recording 12 catches for 123 yards and a touchdown, cementing his role as one of the league’s top young tight ends.
However, the lack of red-zone execution was evident. The Cardinals settled for three field goals instead of touchdowns, and their offensive drives often stalled inside the Rams’ 20-yard line.
Running back James Conner rushed for 68 yards on 17 carries, providing consistency but no explosive plays.
Rams’ Efficient Execution
The Rams, led by Matthew Stafford, were efficient if not flashy. Stafford threw for 189 yards with no turnovers, relying heavily on his rookie wide receiver Puka Nacua, who hauled in 10 receptions for 129 yards.
Running back Kyren Williams was the difference-maker on the ground, recording 56 rushing yards and a crucial touchdown that gave the Rams the edge.
The offensive line improved significantly from their first meeting, allowing Stafford more protection against blitz-heavy schemes.
Rams’ Defense Holds Firm
Defensively, Aaron Donald and Byron Young anchored a resilient Rams front. Donald recorded 2 sacks and 5 QB pressures, disrupting the Cardinals’ passing rhythm. The secondary, featuring Derion Kendrick and Jordan Fuller, prevented big plays despite Arizona’s heavy passing volume.
Key Team Stats (Game 2)
| Category | Arizona Cardinals | Los Angeles Rams |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 396 | 257 |
| Passing Yards | 283 | 189 |
| Rushing Yards | 113 | 68 |
| Time of Possession | 36:55 | 23:05 |
| Turnovers | 2 | 0 |
The numbers paint a story of missed chances for Arizona and opportunistic execution for Los Angeles.
Individual Player Highlights (Combined Analysis)
Kyler Murray (Cardinals, QB)
Kyler Murray had an impressive combined performance across both games:
- Passing: 50 completions out of 69 attempts (≈ 72.5%)
- Yards: 587
- Touchdowns: 4 (3 passing, 1 rushing)
Murray’s mobility and pocket awareness were crucial, though red-zone inefficiency in the second game held the Cardinals back.
Marvin Harrison Jr. (Cardinals, WR)
The rookie proved why he was the most hyped wide receiver prospect in years:
- Game 1: 130 yards, 2 TDs
- Game 2: Limited to 57 yards due to double coverage
Harrison Jr. displayed elite potential as Arizona’s long-term offensive weapon.
Trey McBride (Cardinals, TE)
A revelation in the passing attack:
- Game 2: 12 receptions, 123 yards, 1 TD
McBride’s chemistry with Murray elevated the Cardinals’ aerial game, making him one of the league’s emerging tight ends.
Puka Nacua (Rams, WR)
The Rams’ offensive heartbeat throughout both games:
- Combined: 13 receptions, 177 yards
Nacua’s precise route running and reliability helped sustain drives even when the offense struggled.
Kyren Williams (Rams, RB)
The backbone of the Rams’ running game:
- Combined: 25 carries, 94 yards, 1 TD
Though not explosive, Williams’ consistent gains and clutch touchdown runs stabilized the Rams’ offense.
Defensive Standouts
- Aaron Donald (Rams): 3 sacks, multiple QB hurries, and unmatched interior disruption.
- Budda Baker (Cardinals): 12 total tackles and one interception, providing leadership in key moments.
- Zaven Collins (Cardinals): 15 total tackles and one sack over two games, proving instrumental in containing the Rams’ short passing game.
Tactical and Strategic Comparison
Cardinals’ Approach
The Cardinals emphasized tempo and spacing. Their offensive coordinator deployed spread formations, allowing Murray to use his agility and quick release. The reliance on quick passes and intermediate routes through McBride and Harrison Jr. created sustained drives but lacked finishing power in tight windows.
Rams’ Game Plan
The Rams leaned on situational football — playing field position, controlling turnovers, and leaning on the run game when necessary. Sean McVay’s offense was less explosive than in prior seasons but highly calculated.
The Rams’ defensive scheme focused on containing Murray in the pocket and limiting vertical plays, which paid dividends in their Week 17 win.
Lessons and Takeaways
- Efficiency Trumps Yardage: The Cardinals learned that dominating yardage does not guarantee victory — red-zone execution is crucial.
- Defensive Adaptability: The Rams demonstrated the importance of in-game adjustments, especially with their secondary neutralizing Arizona’s deep threats.
- Emerging Stars: Both Marvin Harrison Jr. and Puka Nacua showcased why they are the future of their franchises.
- Quarterback Resilience: Kyler Murray’s comeback season was proof of his elite talent and leadership, despite offensive inconsistencies.
Season Impact
While the Cardinals displayed significant growth and offensive chemistry, their inconsistency in closing out games cost them potential playoff contention. The Rams, on the other hand, solidified their defensive core and demonstrated their ability to grind out low-scoring wins.
Both teams exited the 2024 season with renewed optimism — Arizona banking on youth and energy, and Los Angeles relying on veteran leadership and tactical precision.
Conclusion
The Arizona Cardinals vs Los Angeles Rams rivalry in the 2024 season was a microcosm of modern NFL football — blending offensive innovation, defensive resilience, and unpredictable drama. Each game told a different story: one of offensive fireworks and another of defensive endurance.
From Kyler Murray’s dynamic playmaking to Aaron Donald’s defensive dominance, and from Marvin Harrison Jr.’s rookie brilliance to Puka Nacua’s consistency, both teams showcased immense talent. As the rivalry continues into future seasons, fans can expect even more electrifying matchups between these two NFC West powerhouses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who had the best performance in the Cardinals vs Rams 2024 matchups?
Kyler Murray stood out for his combined passing yardage and control of the offense, while Trey McBride and Marvin Harrison Jr. also delivered exceptional performances for the Cardinals.
How many times did the Cardinals and Rams face each other in the 2024 season?
They faced each other twice — in Week 2 and Week 17 of the 2024 NFL regular season.
Which player led the Rams in receiving yards during these games?
Rookie wide receiver Puka Nacua led with a combined total of 177 receiving yards across both games.
How did the Rams manage to win despite being outgained in total yardage?
The Rams capitalized on turnovers, red-zone defense, and a crucial touchdown from Kyren Williams while forcing the Cardinals to settle for field goals.
What can we expect from both teams in future matchups?
The Cardinals’ young offense and the Rams’ balanced defense promise future encounters filled with strategy, big plays, and playoff implications.
