The Battle of the Birds: Colts vs Cardinals - A Thrilling Showdown!
In a highly anticipated NFL clash on October 12, 2025, the Indianapolis Colts and Arizona Cardinals faced off, delivering an action-packed game that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Let's dive into the key moments and the controversial calls that had everyone talking.
Daniel Jones, the Colts' quarterback, put on a show, connecting with his receivers for two touchdown passes and also rushing for a score. But it was Jonathan Taylor, the Colts' running back, who stole the show with a crucial 1-yard run for the go-ahead touchdown, leaving just over four minutes on the clock. Taylor's performance was nothing short of spectacular, rushing for 123 yards and showcasing his elusiveness and power.
And here's where it gets controversial... With the game on the line, the Cardinals drove deep into Colts territory, reaching the 9-yard line with under a minute left. But the Colts' defense stepped up, forcing a turnover on downs. Trey McBride, the Cardinals' tight end, argued that he was held in the end zone on the fourth-down play, a call that could have changed the outcome of the game. But the officials stood firm, and the Colts held on for the victory.
The Colts' rookie tight end, Tyler Warren, also made his mark, catching six passes for 63 yards and a touchdown. Indy's perfect home record (5-1) remained intact, thanks to their sixth straight win at Lucas Oil Stadium over the past two seasons.
On the other side, the Cardinals (2-4) suffered their fourth consecutive loss, blowing a fourth-quarter lead for the second week in a row. Jacoby Brissett, stepping in for the injured Kyler Murray, put up impressive numbers, completing 27 of 44 passes for 320 yards and two touchdowns. But it wasn't enough to overcome the Colts' resilient defense.
The final two quarters were a back-and-forth battle, with both offenses trading blows and the defenses struggling to make stops. Arizona took a 17-14 lead on Trey McBride's 1-yard touchdown reception, but Indy responded with a tying field goal. Brissett then connected with Greg Dortch for a 12-yard touchdown pass, giving the Colts a 24-17 lead.
And this is the part most people miss... The Cardinals fought back, regaining the lead with a 44-yard field goal. But it was Taylor's decisive run to the left that sealed the deal for the Colts, giving them a 31-27 victory.
Injury Report:
Cardinals: Kyler Murray missed his first game since 2023 due to a foot injury. Receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. left the game after a hard hit in the second quarter, entering the concussion protocol. The most concerning moment came when tight end Travis Vokolek was placed on a backboard and taken off the field on a golf cart after a first-quarter collision. Safety Dadrion Taylor-Demerson also suffered a lower right leg injury late in the game.
Colts: Indy was already without starting cornerback Kenny Moore II (Achilles tendon) and backup running back Tyler Goodson (groin), ruled out on Friday. Then, during pregame warmups, starting cornerback Charvarius Ward suffered a concussion, and backup quarterback Anthony Richardson fractured his orbital bone. It was a tough day for the Colts' injury-depleted roster.
Up Next:
Cardinals: The Cardinals return home to face the Green Bay Packers next Sunday, looking to snap their losing streak.
Colts: The Colts head back to Los Angeles to take on the Chargers, aiming to continue their winning ways.
Will the Cardinals find their groove at home? Can the Colts maintain their dominance on the road? Find out next week as these teams look to turn their seasons around!
