The Green Bay Packers are riding high as they head into Week 7, and a stunning development in Arizona has just tilted the scales even further in their favor. After dodging a bullet against Joe Burrow in their recent victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, the Packers now appear poised to face another backup quarterback, setting the stage for what could be a defining moment in their season.
According to reports from the Arizona Cardinals’ camp, star quarterback Kyler Murray is increasingly likely to miss Sunday’s matchup due to a lingering foot injury. Darren Urban of the Cardinals’ official website noted that Murray was limited to working with practice-squad pass-catchers during Thursday’s session, a strong indication he may not suit up. NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo added fuel to the fire, stating that the situation is “trending toward another start for Jacoby Brissett.”
Brissett, who filled in for Murray during Arizona’s loss to the Indianapolis Colts last week, is no slouch. He threw for 320 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception in that game. However, facing Brissett instead of the dynamic Murray is a massive break for Green Bay’s defense, which has been a force to be reckoned with this season.
Packers’ Defense: A Formidable Wall
Under defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, the Packers’ defense has been a revelation, ranking No. 5 in the NFL for yards allowed per game. More impressively, they lead the league in run defense, a fact that puts immense pressure on opposing quarterbacks to carry the load through the air. This is bad news for Brissett, whose career record as a starter stands at 19-35, with an average of just over one touchdown pass and 0.47 interceptions per game. While Brissett is a competent backup, he lacks the game-changing spark that Murray brings to the Cardinals’ offense.
Green Bay’s ability to start games strong only amplifies their advantage. The Packers have jumped out to double-digit leads in all five of their contests this season, though they’ve let two of those slip away. Against a backup quarterback, their fast starts could prove insurmountable, forcing Arizona into a one-dimensional passing game that plays right into Green Bay’s defensive strengths.
The Murray Factor
Kyler Murray, when healthy, is a dual-threat nightmare for defenses. His ability to extend plays with his legs and deliver precise passes has made him the cornerstone of Arizona’s offense. The Cardinals are 2-3 in Murray’s five starts this season, but his presence alone elevates their ceiling. Without him, Arizona’s offense loses its explosiveness, and the Packers are well-positioned to capitalize.
Adding to Arizona’s woes, star second-year receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. remains in the concussion protocol, and his availability for Sunday is uncertain. Without Harrison, Brissett’s options in the passing game are further limited, making it even tougher for the Cardinals to keep pace with Green Bay’s high-octane offense.
A Must-Win Opportunity
Even with Murray in the lineup, the Packers would be favored to win this game. Without him, it becomes a golden opportunity—a must-win scenario for Matt LaFleur’s squad. Green Bay has already squandered strong positions in losses to the Cleveland Browns and Dallas Cowboys this season. With a 3-1-1 record on the line, a victory in Arizona could solidify their status as NFC contenders and send shockwaves through the NFL.
The Packers’ offense, led by a resurgent Jordan Love, has been firing on all cylinders, and their defense is proving to be one of the league’s elite units. Facing a backup quarterback and a potentially depleted receiving corps, Green Bay has been handed a gift-wrapped opportunity to make a statement.
Shaking Up the NFL
A win on Sunday would not only improve the Packers’ record to 4-1-1 but also cement their reputation as a team to beat in the NFC. The rest of the league is watching, and a dominant performance against Arizona—especially without Murray—could reshape perceptions of Green Bay’s potential. With the postseason race heating up, this game could be a turning point, signaling that the Packers are ready to dominate.
In a season full of surprises, the Kyler Murray update is the latest twist to favor Green Bay. If the Packers seize this moment, they could be on their way to shaking up the entire NFL landscape.