Quick Recap: Arizona’s Bears lose to the Cardinals
In an unexpected matchup, Arizona’s University Bears fell to the Arizona Cardinals in a charity exhibition game, giving fans a rare opportunity to see a college team take on an NFL squad. Held at State Farm Stadium, the event was organized to raise funds for local youth sports programs and foster community spirit. The game ended with a score of 38-13 in favor of the Cardinals, but the Bears earned applause and respect from fans and players alike for their tenacity and skill on the field.
The Cardinals, fielding a mix of starters and second-string players, took the lead early in the game. Quarterback Kyler Murray played sparingly but made an impact, connecting on a 30-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Rondale Moore in the first quarter. With Murray taking a step back to allow backup quarterbacks more playing time, the Cardinals gave their young talent valuable game experience while keeping the event fun and competitive. This also gave the Bears a chance to face an NFL defense, an experience that they embraced with enthusiasm.
The Bears, led by quarterback Max Johnson, put up a solid fight. Johnson managed to keep his composure against the Cardinals’ pass rush, delivering a few impressive throws that highlighted his potential as a future NFL prospect. One of the Bears’ memorable moments came in the second quarter when Johnson completed a 40-yard pass to wide receiver Isaiah Hernandez, setting up a touchdown that brought the Bears within a score of the Cardinals. The stadium erupted with cheers as the Bears celebrated their only touchdown of the first half, demonstrating that they could keep pace with their professional counterparts for brief stretches.
Throughout the game, the Cardinals’ defense remained vigilant, holding the Bears to just two field goals in the second half while adding three more touchdowns of their own. The Cardinals’ running backs and receiving corps put on a show, with veteran running back James Conner breaking free for a 50-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, showcasing his speed and agility. Young defensive stars like linebacker Zaven Collins also took the opportunity to display their skills, putting consistent pressure on the Bears’ offensive line and contributing to the team’s overall dominance.
Despite the loss, Bears head coach Mike Thompson was proud of his team’s performance and emphasized the experience gained from competing against NFL-caliber players. “This was a fantastic opportunity for our players to challenge themselves against some of the best athletes in the sport,” Thompson remarked after the game. “They’ll take a lot from this, and I couldn’t be prouder of the way they handled themselves.”
Fans appreciated the friendly but competitive atmosphere, and the charity game succeeded in raising funds to support underprivileged youth athletes across Arizona. For both the Cardinals and the Bears, the exhibition was a chance to engage with the community while celebrating the spirit of football. As the Cardinals prepare to continue their NFL season and the Bears head back to the collegiate gridiron, the game will be remembered as a special moment where Arizona’s football talent came together for a greater cause.