The Cardinals fought relentlessly for victory while the 49ers faded

No ambulance or defibrillator required. The Arizona Cardinals revived their own season on Sunday.

They went above and beyond, playing closely together and showering with dignity. They have drawn more than one last cup from the exhausted well of moral victories.

They defeated the San Francisco 49ers at their own game, earning a 24-23 victory at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.

The result was an eye-catcher. The 49ers are considered Super Bowl worthy. Previously, they were 38-0 under head coach Kyle Shanahan and led by 10 or more points early in the fourth quarter. Most observers felt they would win if they won.

But the hosts faded under the heat and relentless attack of the Cardinals. James Conner turned into a beast in the second half, treating tacklers like speed bumps. A much-maligned defense shut out the 49ers in the final 30 minutes, winning the game with an unlikely diet of strong pass rush and timely turnovers. This victory was more than just a life preserver. It was a shot of credibility in a season that seemed to be on the decline.

With the win, the Cardinals move to 2-3 on the season. More importantly, they are now 2-0 in the NFC West and regaining a fair amount of respect within their division.

The win was also a step forward for quarterback Kyler Murray, who had been largely mediocre in the previous two losses, raising tough questions about his future in Arizona. But as usual, he led Arizona to a touchdown on its first drive for the fifth straight time this season. This time he scored a stunning 50-yard rushing touchdown, pointing his finger to the sky 44 yards from the end zone.

It was a confirmation of Murray’s ceiling, the kind of freak-show athleticism that few athletes possess.

There were also unpleasant, ineffective routes. There were chunky plays that made you think about Marvin Harison Jr. But just before the finish line, Murray found a way to make things happen. Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing responded to waves of pressure and criticism with a series of great decisions and game plans. And on the other side of the ball, the defense showed incredible courage.

Perhaps the Cardinals caught a break when they faced a team without Christian McCaffrey and one that lost its kicker during the game. But no apologies are necessary.

Entering Sunday’s game, the Cardinals were 13-36 in their last 49 games. For a fan base that wants to believe, this is a great loss. And the locals were clearly growing restless about the ownership, the franchise quarterback and a coaching staff that had lost its collective luster.

The Cardinals found something powerful on Sunday. In the heat, on the move and just in time.

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