Kyler Murray showed why he was No. 1 overall pick vs. Lions

Kyler Murray wasn’t perfect in Week 1, but he proved exactly why he was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NFL draft.

The Arizona Cardinals may have finished their Week 1 game against the Detroit Lions without a win, but they didn’t lose the game either. Yeah, the game ended in a 27-27 tie.

Bigger than the final score was the performance of Kyler Murray, the first overall pick and new face of the franchise in Arizona. While he wasn’t perfect, he flashed all the traits that made him such an exciting draft prospect and slamdunk No. 1 pick.

Murray ended the game completing 29-of-54 passes for 308 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. He didn’t run nearly as much as many predicted; he finished with just 13 yards on the ground.

Beyond the box score, Murray proved the NFL game isn’t too big for him. He was magnificent in the fourth quarter and led the Cardinals on a comeback that ultimately put them in position to win the game in overtime. Yes, they fell short, but Murray proved he’s the goods.

Arizona was down 18 points in the second half; Murray’s two fourth-quarter TD passes forced the extra period and gave Cardinals fans a glimpse at how hard to stop he’ll eventually become. His ball placement was magnificent and even just the threat of him breaking the pocket and running for big chunks was enough to keep the Lions defense honest.

Murray also helped WR Larry Fitzgerald find the fountain of youth. Fitzgerald ended the game with eight catches for 113 yards and a touchdown. David Johnson benefited too; he hauled in six passes for 55 yards and a score (as a receiver).

Murray will face a much stiffer challenge in Week 2 against the Baltimore Ravens, who just shellacked the Dolphins, 59-10.