49ers vs. Cardinals NFL Game Week 2 | Sep 21, 2025

The San Francisco 49ers and Arizona Cardinals are poised for an electrifying NFC West clash in Week 3 of the 2025 NFL season. Scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2025, at 1:25 PM ET, this game at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, promises a high-stakes divisional battle between two teams with playoff ambitions. Broadcast on FOX, with tickets starting at $120, fans have a prime opportunity to experience this rivalry live in one of the NFL’s most modern venues or watch from home. This matchup blends star power, strategic coaching, and the passionate energy of a divisional showdown. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the game, including team insights, key players, viewing options, and tips for attending or watching.

A Fierce NFC West Rivalry

The 49ers and Cardinals have a storied rivalry within the NFC West, with San Francisco leading the all-time series 34-29. Recent matchups have been dominated by the 49ers, who won both 2024 meetings (38-13 and 27-10), showcasing their physical brand of football. This Week 3 game offers the Cardinals, who finished 4-13 in 2024 under head coach Jonathan Gannon, a chance to upset their divisional foes and build momentum with quarterback Kyler Murray. Meanwhile, the 49ers, coming off a 12-5 season in 2024 under Kyle Shanahan, aim to solidify their status as NFC contenders with a balanced attack led by Brock Purdy.

Both teams are driven by postseason goals. The 49ers, fresh off a Super Bowl appearance in 2024, are focused on maintaining their NFC West dominance. The Cardinals, rebuilding around Murray and a young roster, are looking to make a leap toward playoff contention. This early-season clash could shape the divisional race and set the tone for 2025.

Game Details: When, Where, and How to Watch

• Date and Time: Sunday, September 21, 2025, at 1:25 PM ET
• Location: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California
• TV/Streaming: FOX (check local listings for channel numbers)
• Local Broadcast: KTVU (FOX/2) in San Francisco, KSAZ (FOX/10) in Phoenix
• Radio: KNBR 680 AM (San Francisco), KMVP 98.7 FM (Phoenix), SiriusXM channels 253 (San Francisco) and 254 (Arizona)
• Announcers: Joe Davis (play-by-play), Greg Olsen (color analyst), Pam Oliver (sideline)
• Streaming Options: Stream the game via the FOX Sports app, fuboTV, YouTube TV, or Hulu + Live TV, all offering free trials for new users. NFL+ provides mobile streaming for out-of-market fans, starting at $6.99/month.

FOX’s broadcast, featuring Joe Davis’s dynamic play-by-play and Greg Olsen’s insightful analysis, delivers a top-tier viewing experience. Fans can stream the game through the FOX Sports app or website with a cable login or via live TV streaming services like fuboTV, which offers a seven-day free trial. NFL+ is ideal for out-of-market viewers, providing live game audio and mobile streaming. Check your local FOX affiliate to confirm channel availability, as it varies by region.

Ticket Information: Experience SoFi Stadium

Attending the game at SoFi Stadium, with its futuristic design and state-of-the-art amenities, is a bucket-list experience for NFL fans. Tickets start at $120 through platforms like Ticketmaster, StubHub, and SeatGeek, making this an accessible option for a divisional showdown. Prices vary based on seating location, with upper-level seats in sections like 500-535 offering budget-friendly options and lower-level or club seats near the field commanding higher rates. Given the rivalry’s intensity and SoFi’s allure, tickets are expected to sell quickly.

To secure the best deals, compare prices across platforms and opt for verified tickets to avoid scams. Enhance your game-day experience with 49ers or Cardinals gear from Fanatics, offering everything from Brock Purdy jerseys to Kyler Murray hoodies. SoFi Stadium’s unique features, including its massive Infinity Screen and vibrant tailgating scene, make this a must-attend event. The stadium enforces a clear bag policy (12x6x12 inches) to streamline entry, so plan accordingly.

Key Players to Watch

San Francisco 49ers

• Brock Purdy (QB): The third-year quarterback threw for 4,280 yards, 31 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions in 2024, earning Pro Bowl honors. His quick decision-making and accuracy make him a cornerstone of the 49ers’ offense.
• Christian McCaffrey (RB): McCaffrey led the NFL with 1,459 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns in 2024, while adding 564 receiving yards and seven scores. His versatility will test Arizona’s defense.
• Brandon Aiyuk (WR): Aiyuk had 75 catches for 1,342 yards and eight touchdowns in 2024. His deep-threat ability will challenge the Cardinals’ secondary.
• Kyle Shanahan (Head Coach): Shanahan’s innovative play-calling led to a top-five offense (389.2 yards per game) in 2024. His schemes to exploit Arizona’s defense will be key.

Arizona Cardinals

• Kyler Murray (QB): Murray threw for 3,287 yards, 20 touchdowns, and nine interceptions in 2024, while rushing for 498 yards and four scores. His dual-threat ability makes him a matchup nightmare.
• James Conner (RB): Conner ran for 1,040 yards and eight touchdowns in 2024, providing a physical ground game. His power could test San Francisco’s front seven.
• Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR): The rookie receiver had 68 catches for 912 yards and six touchdowns in 2024. His size and speed will challenge the 49ers’ secondary.
• Jonathan Gannon (Head Coach): Gannon’s defensive schemes improved Arizona’s unit to 16th in yards allowed (331.4 per game) in 2024. His ability to disrupt Purdy will be critical.

Game Preview: What to Expect on the Field

This matchup pits San Francisco’s high-powered offense against Arizona’s scrappy, improving roster. The 49ers’ offense, ranked third in scoring (28.4 points per game in 2024), thrives on Purdy’s precision and McCaffrey’s versatility. Their defense, second in points allowed (17.5 per game), is anchored by Nick Bosa (10.5 sacks) and Fred Warner (112 tackles), excelling at generating pressure and stopping the run.

The Cardinals’ offense, ranked 15th in yards (340.8 per game in 2024), relies on Murray’s playmaking and Conner’s physicality. Their defense, featuring Budda Baker (96 tackles, two interceptions) and Dennis Gardeck (6.5 sacks), has shown growth under Gannon. Key battles to watch include:

• 49ers’ O-line vs. Cardinals’ D-line: Arizona’s Gardeck and Zaven Collins will target San Francisco’s tackles to disrupt Purdy’s rhythm.
• Marvin Harrison Jr. vs. Charvarius Ward: The 49ers’ top corner (three interceptions in 2024) must contain Harrison to limit Arizona’s passing attack.
• Red Zone Efficiency: San Francisco’s 63.7% red zone touchdown rate (third in NFL) faces Arizona’s 51.2% red zone defense (ninth in NFL).

SoFi Stadium’s indoor setting ensures ideal conditions, favoring both teams’ passing games and setting the stage for a competitive, high-scoring affair.

Viewing Experience: FOX’s Sunday Afternoon Broadcast

FOX’s broadcast, with Joe Davis, Greg Olsen, and Pam Oliver, delivers a dynamic viewing experience, blending sharp commentary with sideline insights. The FOX Sports app enhances the experience with live stats, player tracking, and multi-angle replays. Local viewers in San Francisco and Phoenix can tune into KTVU or KSAZ, while streaming services like fuboTV and YouTube TV provide flexibility for cord-cutters. NFL+ is ideal for out-of-market fans, offering live audio and mobile streaming.

To optimize your viewing, test your streaming setup in advance and ensure a stable internet connection for HD quality. Pair your watch party with game-day snacks like San Francisco-style sourdough sandwiches or Arizona-inspired tacos to capture the rivalry’s vibe.

Why This Game Matters

This Week 3 clash is a pivotal early test in the NFC West race. A 49ers win would reinforce their divisional dominance and solidify their status as Super Bowl contenders. For the Cardinals, an upset victory would signal their rebuilding efforts are ahead of schedule and boost their confidence in a tough division. The game also showcases two passionate fanbases, with San Francisco’s “Faithful” and Arizona’s “Red Sea” adding to the intensity.

Fan Tips: How to Prepare

• Get Your Gear: Show your team pride with 49ers or Cardinals apparel from Fanatics. From Christian McCaffrey jerseys to Kyler Murray hoodies, there’s gear for every fan.
• Watch Party Setup: Set up your FOX Sports app or streaming service early to avoid technical issues. A large screen and surround sound can elevate the experience.
• Stay Connected: Follow @49ers and @AZCardinals on social media for pregame content, live updates, and highlights. The NFL app offers real-time stats and exclusive content.
• Betting Insights: Per FanDuel, the 49ers are favored at -165, with the Cardinals at +140. The over/under is set at 48.5 points, suggesting a high-scoring game.

The 49ers vs. Cardinals Week 3 matchup is a must-watch NFC West showdown, blending elite talent, divisional stakes, and playoff implications. Whether you’re cheering from the futuristic SoFi Stadium or watching on FOX, this game promises intense action and unforgettable moments. Secure your tickets, don your team colors, and get ready for a Sunday afternoon filled with NFL excitement.