Cardinals QB Kyler Murray, WR DeAndre Hopkins game-time decisions vs. Panthers

The Arizona Cardinals improved to 8-1 via last Sunday's win at the San Francisco 49ers and did so without star quarterback Kyler Murray (left ankle) and All-Pro wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (hamstring) in the lineup.

Murray remarked Wednesday he felt hopeful he could take the field for this Sunday's home matchup against the 4-5 Carolina Panthers, but head coach Kliff Kingsbury told reporters Friday his QB1 and Hopkins will both be game-time decisions. 

Similar to what Kingsbury said a week ago, he explained Friday he wants to know Murray can "move well enough to protect himself" on passing plays, per Josh Weinfuss of ESPN. 

"He's got to be able to move enough to where he can protect himself, do what he does, escape, extend plays, things of that nature," Kingsbury added. 

Journeyman veteran Colt McCoy started under center for Arizona at the 49ers and completed 22-of-26 passes for 249 yards and a touchdown in the winning effort. 

As for Hopkins, Kingsbury said he needs the receiver to be at "100%" by Sunday to avoid possibly losing him "for an extended period of time." 

The Panthers, meanwhile, are starting former XFL star P.J. Walker at quarterback with Sam Darnold out due to a shoulder injury. 2015 NFL Most Valuable Player Cam Newton could also make an appearance or two for the Panthers on Sunday even though he's only practiced once since rejoining the club earlier this week.