> **Coaching inconsistency**
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> Head coach Jonathan Gannon is now in his third season leading the Cardinals, but his tenure has been marked by turbulence rather than triumph.
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> His most controversial moment came in Week 5 against the Titans, when [a sideline confrontation with running back Emari Demercado](https://apnews.com/article/arizona-cardinals-gannon-demercado-fumble-cf1b7a45c5cc85da8a73178a36a04c06) drew widespread criticism. After Demercado fumbled away a potential 72-yard touchdown, Gannon was seen yelling at the player and swiping his arm in a manner that appeared to make contact. The incident led to a $100,000 fine from the team.
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> Gannon’s coaching record stands at 14–27 (.341 win percentage). Before joining Arizona, he served as the defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, helping guide them a Super Bowl LVII appearance. Despite his pedigree, the Cardinals have struggled under his leadership, most notably losing three games this season after leading by a touchdown in the fourth quarter, which had never happened in NFL history.
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> Arizona enters Week 9 on a five-game losing streak, and Gannon’s five-year contract, signed in 2023, is beginning to look increasingly tenuous. The pressure is mounting, and the spotlight is squarely on the Cardinals’ sideline.
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> **Waiting for Murray**
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> Murray, [the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NFL draft](https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/2019/04/26/kyler-murray-overcame-his-critics-and-the-no-1-draft-pick-might-still-be-just-getting-started/), has yet to fully deliver on the franchise-altering expectations that came with his selection. The Bedford native has just one playoff appearance to date, a lopsided 34–11 loss to the Rams in the Wild Card round four postseasons ago.
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> Murray is battling a mid-foot sprain that has sidelined him for the last two games (vs. Colts and Packers). Through five starts this season, he’s posted 962 passing yards, six touchdowns, three interceptions and 101 completions on 161 attempts for a 68% completion rate. Historically, Murray has performed well against Dallas, throwing for 451 yards and four touchdowns in two career games, both wins, versus the Cowboys.
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> If he’s unable to suit up for Week 9, the Cardinals will turn to veteran Jacoby Brissett, a well-traveled backup who’s played for the Patriots, Colts, Dolphins, Commanders and now Arizona. In two starts this season, Brissett has been solid with 599 yards, four touchdowns and one interception. Whether it’s Murray or Brissett under center, the Cardinals will need sharp quarterback play to beat the Cowboys.