Three key takeaways from Arizona Cardinals’ upset over Rams

The biggest takeaway was a Cardinals defense that barely resembled the unit Arizona had shown earlier in the season; the defense finally looked different. Defensive coordinator Nick Rallis made the necessary adjustments, while head coach Matt LaFleur’s familiarity with Sean McVay and the Rams’ offensive concepts appeared valuable in constructing Arizona’s approach. More importantly, it showed the Cardinals don’t necessarily need an explosive offense every week if their defense can consistently dictate games.

Jacoby Brissett did what Arizona needed to get the win. Brissett didn’t throw a touchdown, but that almost strengthens the argument for what his role should be. Arizona didn’t need him to become the reason it won; it needed him to avoid becoming the reason it lost. That’s what quality journeyman and backup quarterbacks do, and it’s largely what Brissett has provided throughout his career. If he can eliminate costly mistakes and keep the offense moving, Arizona can afford to be patient with him, especially if the defense continues playing at this level.

The schedule suddenly feels different as Arizona’s next four games with Denver, Dallas, Seattle, and another matchup with Los Angeles looked daunting entering the season. Now? Maybe not as much. Bo Nix and Denver have struggled to find consistency, Dallas has dealt with its own issues, Seattle hasn’t maintained its early-season form, and Arizona just proved it can beat the Rams. One win doesn’t fix a season, but confidence matters and grows quickly in the NFL. Arizona entered Los Angeles needing a win, and it left with something potentially more valuable: a blueprint.