The Arizona Cardinals vs Buffalo Bills match player stats from their unforgettable showdown—best remembered for the dramatic “Hail Murray” finish—remain some of the most analyzed numbers in recent NFL history. This game, played on November 15, 2020, delivered elite quarterback play, explosive receiving performances, strategic rushing attacks, and a finish that instantly became an NFL classic. Whether you’re a football analyst, fantasy sports fan, or simply someone researching the player metrics from this historic matchup, this comprehensive breakdown covers every meaningful stat, trend, and impact performance. This article provides an SEO-friendly, deeply detailed look at Arizona Cardinals vs Buffalo Bills match player stats, including passing, rushing, and receiving metrics, along with insights about what these stats reveal about each team’s strategy and execution.
Introduction to the Arizona Cardinals vs Buffalo Bills Match
Before diving into the player stats themselves, it’s essential to understand the context of the Cardinals vs Bills game. Both teams entered the 2020 matchup with winning records and strong playoff aspirations. The Bills were powered by rising star Josh Allen, while the Cardinals were making waves with dynamic dual-threat quarterback Kyler Murray and newly acquired All-Pro receiver DeAndre Hopkins.
The game was competitive from start to finish, with both offenses trading explosive plays. Yet it was the final seconds—when Kyler Murray launched a desperation pass to Hopkins surrounded by three defenders—that transformed the matchup from a routine game into one of the NFL’s most iconic moments.
But behind that moment lies a wealth of player performance data that tells the whole story of how both teams executed on offense.
Buffalo Bills Player Stats Breakdown
Josh Allen – Passing Efficiency and Dual-Threat Impact
Passing Stats:
- 32/49 completions
- 284 passing yards
- 2 passing touchdowns
- 2 interceptions
- 77.3 passer rating
Josh Allen demonstrated his aggressiveness as a downfield passer throughout the game, spreading the ball across multiple receivers for nearly 300 yards. His two touchdown throws, especially the late scoring pass to Stefon Diggs, showcased his poise in tight windows. However, the two interceptions gave Arizona extra opportunities to stay in the game.
Rushing Contribution:
- 7 carries for 38 yards
- 5.4 yards per carry
As expected, Allen also contributed on the ground, converting key first downs and extending plays. His dual-threat nature kept the Cardinals’ defense guessing throughout the matchup.
Bills Receiving Corps: Beasley and Diggs Shine
The Bills’ wide receiver duo delivered elite performances that drove Buffalo’s passing attack.
Stefon Diggs
- 10 receptions, 93 yards, 1 touchdown
Diggs was electric, especially on short and intermediate routes. His precise route-running and reliable hands allowed him to create consistent separation. His late fourth-quarter touchdown was one of the clutch moments of the game—before the Cardinals answered with the Hail Mary.
Cole Beasley
- 11 receptions, 109 yards, 1 touchdown
Beasley served as Allen’s safety valve and short-yardage machine, putting up over 100 yards on 11 catches. His ability to slip into soft coverage zones proved essential throughout long drives.
Additional Receiving Notes
- John Brown contributed 6 catches for 72 yards, adding deep-threat capability.
- Role players like Dawson Knox and Isaiah McKenzie pitched in smaller but meaningful gains.
The Bills’ receiving stats underscore a team built around strong route-running and precision passing, even if the lack of run production limited offensive balance.
Bills Rushing Performance: A Modest Ground Game
The Bills combined for 73 rushing yards, with none of the running backs crossing the 25-yard mark individually.
- Zack Moss: 7 carries for 20 yards
- Devin Singletary: 4 carries for 15 yards
The minimal production on the ground forced Buffalo to rely heavily on Josh Allen’s arm, which worked for much of the game—until the Cardinals’ defensive adjustments led to turnovers.
Arizona Cardinals Player Stats Breakdown
Kyler Murray – A True Dual-Threat Superstar
Passing Stats:
- 22/32 completions
- 245 yards
- 1 touchdown
- 1 interception
- 88.7 passer rating
Murray executed the passing game with efficiency, hitting receivers in stride and keeping the offense moving. His highlight throw, of course, was the miraculous final-second heave to Hopkins, which not only won the game but froze defenders in disbelief.
Rushing Stats:
- 11 carries for 61 yards and 2 touchdowns
Kyler Murray’s legs were a significant problem for the Bills’ defense. His mobility allowed him to evade pressure, convert red-zone opportunities, and keep drives alive. The Bills’ defenders struggled to contain his scrambling, which complemented the Cardinals’ run-heavy offensive strategy.
Arizona Rushing Attack: A Balanced Ground Assault
The Cardinals ran for 217 total rushing yards, showing a powerful and well-balanced ground attack.
Kenyan Drake
- 16 carries for 100 yards
- 6.3 yards per carry
Drake returned from injury and instantly made an impact with explosive cuts and consistent gains.
Chase Edmonds
- 8 carries for 56 yards
- 7.0 yards per carry
Edmonds added versatility as both a runner and receiver, allowing Arizona to attack Buffalo’s defense from multiple angles.
The combination of Murray, Drake, and Edmonds allowed the Cardinals to control the pace of the game and outgain the Bills on the ground by nearly 150 yards.
Receiving Game: Hopkins Dominates the Spotlight
DeAndre Hopkins – The Star of the Show
- 7 receptions
- 127 yards
- 18.1 yards per catch
- 1 iconic touchdown
Hopkins’ performance alone would have been impressive even without the Hail Mary. But the final catch—out-leaping three defenders—cemented the game as one of his most outstanding performances ever.
Supporting Receivers
- Dan Arnold: 4 receptions, 34 yards
- Christian Kirk: 4 receptions, 27 yards
- Larry Fitzgerald: 2 receptions, 13 yards
The receiving stats reflect a spread-the-ball strategy that relied on Hopkins as the primary playmaker, with others contributing only in situational roles.
Statistical Comparison: Cardinals vs Bills
Here’s a quick comparison of the key numbers:
| Category | Cardinals | Bills |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 453 | 369 |
| Passing Yards | 245 | 296 |
| Rushing Yards | 217 | 73 |
| Yards per Play | 6.2 | 5.4 |
| Turnovers | 1 | 2 |
The Cardinals gained more total yards and dominated the running game, allowing them to control the clock and wear down the Bills’ defense. Meanwhile, the Bills’ reliance on the passing game made them explosive, but more prone to turnovers.
Why These Player Stats Matter
Analyzing Arizona Cardinals vs Buffalo Bills match player stats reveals several key insights:
Murray’s Mobility Dictated the Game
His ability to run forced Buffalo to adjust defensively, opening lanes in the passing game.
Hopkins Was the Decisive Factor
Not only did he lead all receivers in yards, but his final play was game-winning.
Bills Passing Attack Was Elite
Even in defeat, Josh Allen and his receivers posted championship-level numbers.
Lack of Rushing Hurt Buffalo
Without a stable ground attack, the Bills became predictable late in the game.
Turnovers Shifted Momentum
Arizona capitalized on the Bills’ mistakes at critical moments.
Conclusion: A Legendary Game Defined by Elite Player Stats
The Arizona Cardinals vs Buffalo Bills match player stats tell the story of a tightly contested battle between two rising NFL powers. The Cardinals showcased a balanced attack driven by Kyler Murray’s dual-threat brilliance and DeAndre Hopkins’ heroics. The Bills demonstrated exceptional passing efficiency, but their lack of rushing production and two costly turnovers ultimately shifted the game’s outcome.
