Cardinals vs. 49ers: Week 11 breakdown, preview for San Francisco
By Peter Panacy
Quarterback Comparison: Jimmy Garoppolo vs. Kyler Murray
Despite the Cardinals’ best efforts to shut down San Francisco’s ground game in Week 9, Jimmy Garoppolo managed to respond with a career-best four-touchdown game in prime time.
But that was with two of Garoppolo’s top receiving weapons available, tight end George Kittle and wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders. Both players enter Week 11 with injuries, meaning Jimmy G might have to respond in a different way.
Especially following his three-turnover game against Seattle last week.
Jimmy Garoppolo
Speaking of those turnovers, the Seahawks managed 21 points off the Niners losing the ball in Week 10. Looking at the final 27-24 score and all other things being equal, it’s not hard to understand why it’s imperative for Garoppolo and Co. to maintain ball security.
Garoppolo has tossed 14 touchdowns against eight interceptions this season. He protected the ball well in Arizona two weeks ago. But again, that came with his two top receiving options available.
On the positive side, however, Garoppolo’s 67.6 completion percentage still ranks 10th best among qualifiers, while his 94.8 passer rating ranks 15th.
Kyler Murray
It’s becoming clear why the Cardinals used the No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick in 2019 on their quarterback, Kyler Murray.
Murray has been dynamic so far this season. And while he’s not exactly in the discussion for league MVP or anything like that, it’s no stretch to suggest Murray gave San Francisco’s defense fits the last time these two squads faced off.
Murray tossed for 241 yards and two touchdowns in Week 9, also showcasing his elusiveness by picking up 34 rush yards on the ground.
After the game, 49ers defensive tackle DeForest Buckner told reporters, “He’s like a little squirrel back there. Like a little squirrel running everywhere and everything.”
In total, Murray’s 63.9 completion percentage ranks 20th among qualifiers, while his 90.2 passer rating ranks 22nd.