Arizona Cardinals Collapse Again After Overtime Loss Against Jacksonville Jaguars

The Arizona Cardinals entered Sunday with hopes of redemption but walked away with another crushing reminder of who they've become: a team that cannot finish games. Their 27-24 overtime loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars didn't just sting; it exposed a repeating pattern that has turned a once-promising season into a familiar nightmare for fans in the Valley.

Cardinals' Season Spirals Into Frustration

After more than 70 days without a home victory and now at 3-8, the Cardinals remain the odd team out in the powerhouse NFC West. What started as a hopeful season has devolved into a collapse marked by 12 losses in their last 17 games.

The dreams of a breakout year have faded. Many now believe that embracing a full rebuild and securing a high draft position may be the most logical long-term strategy, even if it's painful in the short term.

Defense Finally Shows Up With Big Plays

The defense showed rare fire despite another tough loss for the Cardinals. After yielding 85 points in their previous two games, the unit responded with three interceptions off Trevor Lawrence, including one in the end zone.

Garrett Williams picked off a tipped pass to prevent a sure touchdown. Budda Baker picked off his first interception in three years, electrifying the stadium.

Walter Nolen III was his usual bright spot, making a highlight-reel play when he caught the ball midair with one arm and, shedding a block with the other, bulldozed into the end zone.

These defensive sparks showed fight and resilience, something fans desperately needed to see.

Offense Struggles Again as Brissett Shoulders the Load

While the defense made plays, the offense again sputtered. The running game produced almost nothing, which meant Jacoby Brissett attempted 49 passes.

One major bright spot continues to be Michael Wilson, who's established himself as one of the Cardinals' most consistent weapons on offense. With 25 receptions over the last couple of weeks and some Boldin-esque toughness, Wilson has become a crucial playmaker-one who must remain a focal point once Marvin Harrison Jr. returns.

Costly Mistakes at Critical Junctures Doom the Cardinals.

Even though Arizona won the turnover battle by four, they still found a way to lose. They joined only 13 teams in the last 25 years to accomplish that unfortunate feat, according to Arizona Sports.

The collapse came down to a series of baffling decisions:

Going for it on fourth-and-12 deep in their own territory despite having timeouts and the two-minute warning.

Poor clock management on that last drive, with the failure to spike the ball after a big catch by Wilson, who prematurely celebrated before scrambling to recover from his mistake.

In overtime, on fourth-and-4, selecting a deep shot - essentially throwing up a prayer - rather than extending the drive. The Cardinals fought hard, but fighting alone can't overcome repeated mental errors and poor execution.