In a decisive Week 18 matchup, the Arizona Cardinals triumphed over the San Francisco 49ers with a final score of 42-17, securing their place in the postseason. With playoff implications on the line, the Cardinals delivered a strong performance to cap off the regular season. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza led the charge for Arizona, throwing for an impressive 311 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to spread the ball effectively. He found standout receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr., who racked up 94 receiving yards, while Derrick Henry added a solid ground game with 82 rushing yards, contributing to the Cardinals' balanced offensive attack. On the defensive side, Zaven Collins made his mark with a key sack, pressuring the 49ers' offense throughout the game. The turning point came in the second quarter when the Cardinals' defense stifled a San Francisco drive, allowing Arizona to extend their lead. Ji'Ayir Brown stood out for the 49ers with 10 total tackles, but it wasn't enough to slow down the Cardinals' offensive momentum.