by The Arizona Cardinals have officially announced their starting quarterback for the high-profile Week 9 Monday Night Football matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. Head Coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed that veteran Jacoby Brissett Cardinals starter for the third consecutive game as Kyler Murray continues to rehab a lingering foot injury.
This decision was made late in the week after Murray, while showing progress in limited practice, was not cleared for full game action. Naming Jacoby Brissett Cardinals starter provides a necessary sense of stability for the offense heading into a tough divisional road game.
Kyler Murray’s Continued Recovery and Week 9 Status
Despite the Week 8 bye, star quarterback Kyler Murray is still not quite ready to return to the field from his mid-foot sprain, forcing the Cardinals to move forward with their veteran backup. Murray was limited in practice throughout the week, an encouraging sign of progress, but not enough to unseat Jacoby Brissett Cardinals starter for the primetime contest.
The team has emphasized a cautious approach, prioritizing Murray’s long-term health over a risky Week 9 return, especially against a formidable Cowboys defense. The clarity that Jacoby Brissett Cardinals starter is a temporary measure while their franchise QB works his way back is important for team morale and future planning.
The Trust in the Veteran: Why Brissett Gets the Nod
The decision to name Jacoby Brissett Cardinals starter is a testament to the veteran’s steady and efficient play since stepping in for Murray. Over the last two games, Brissett has been a surprisingly effective manager of the offense, completing over 64% of his passes for nearly 600 yards, four touchdowns, and only one interception. His experience and high football IQ have allowed the Cardinals to maintain a competitive rhythm.
Coach Gannon cited Brissett’s strong command and ability to avoid being “fooled a lot” as key reasons for maintaining him as the Jacoby Brissett Cardinals starter against a complex Dallas defensive scheme.
Evaluating the Matchup vs. Dallas
Facing the Dallas Cowboys on the road is a monumental task for any team, making the appointment of Jacoby Brissett Cardinals starter a critical factor. Dallas boasts one of the league’s top-ranked defenses, specializing in pressure and forcing turnovers, which presents a stiff challenge for a backup quarterback. However, Brissett’s pocket presence and quick decision-making—qualities that contrast with Murray’s more improvisational style—might actually serve to mitigate some of the Cowboys’ pass-rushing strengths.
The strategy with Jacoby Brissett Cardinals starter will likely involve a heavier dose of short, quick throws and screens to negate the rush and keep the offense moving.
Fantasy Football and Offensive Impact
From a fantasy perspective, the news that Jacoby Brissett Cardinals starter gives a slight downgrade to the overall upside of Arizona’s key offensive playmakers, though not a complete bust. While Brissett may lack Murray’s explosive playmaking ability, he has demonstrated a strong connection with certain receivers and tight ends, particularly Trey McBride and the rookie wideouts.
His accuracy on intermediate routes ensures that the Cardinals’ receiving options still have a high floor for receptions and yardage. Fantasy managers should view Jacoby Brissett Cardinals starter as a stable, if unexciting, option for the offense this week, with players like Trey Benson and Marvin Harrison Jr. remaining startable options.
What the Future Holds for the Cardinals’ Quarterback Position
While Jacoby Brissett Cardinals starter for Week 9, the timeline for Kyler Murray’s return remains the biggest question mark for the franchise. The Cardinals are hopeful that the Week 8 bye and one more week of rest will have Murray ready to reclaim his starting role in Week 10. For now, the organization is comfortable leaning on the veteran presence of Brissett to keep the team competitive while they ensure their franchise quarterback is fully recovered.
The consistency provided by having Jacoby Brissett Cardinals starter is valuable as the team tries to snap a five-game losing streak.
