Gardner Minshew stepped in for an ineffective Jacoby Brissett and orchestrated a dramatic comeback, leading the Arizona Cardinals to a 33-30 overtime victory against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. The win improved the Cardinals' record to 3-5.
Minshew entered the game late in the third quarter with the Cardinals trailing 17-3. Brissett had struggled, completing just 10 of 23 passes for 119 yards, throwing an interception, and being sacked four times. Minshew immediately provided a spark, completing a short pass that set up a 63-yard touchdown run by Tyler Allgeier, cutting the deficit to 17-10.
The Cardinals continued to battle, and Minshew eventually directed a game-tying touchdown drive, connecting with Michael Wilson for a score that leveled the game at 30 with seconds remaining in regulation. After the Cardinals' defense forced an overtime possession, Minshew led an eight-play, 44-yard drive that culminated in a 42-yard field goal by Chad Ryland, securing the improbable win.
Minshew, who was making his first appearance for the Cardinals this season, has a history of stepping up in backup roles. Originally a sixth-round pick by Jacksonville in 2019, he became a surprise starter as a rookie. He later earned a Pro Bowl selection with the Indianapolis Colts in 2023 after stepping in for the injured Anthony Richardson. His career has also included stints with the Philadelphia Eagles, Las Vegas Raiders, and Kansas City Chiefs.
Brissett's benching marked a difficult afternoon for the Cardinals' offense, which had been struggling throughout the season. Arizona entered the game having lost five of their previous six contests.