No ambulances or defibrillators are needed. The Arizona Cardinals revived their own season on Sunday.

They did more than do their best, play close and shower with dignity. They did more than scoop up one last cup from the exhausted well of moral victories.

They defeated the San Francisco 49ers in their own game and cruised their way to a 24-23 victory at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.

The outcome was astounding. The 49ers are considered Super Bowl worthy. They were previously 38-0 under head coach Kyle Shanahan while leading by 10 or more points entering the fourth quarter. Most observers thought they would win in a blowout.

But the hosts succumbed to the heat and the Cardinals’ relentless attack. James Conner turned into a beast in the second half, treating tacklers like speed bumps. A much-maligned defense shut out the 49ers in the final 30 minutes and won the game with an unlikely diet of heavy pass rush and timely turnovers. This victory was more than a lifeline. It was an example of credibility in a season that seemed to be on the rocks.

With the win, the Cardinals are 2-3 on the season. More importantly, they are now 2-0 in the NFC West, regaining a good bit of respect within their division.

The win was also a step forward for quarterback Kyler Murray, who had been largely mediocre in the previous two losses, raising heavy questions about his future in Arizona. But as usual, he led Arizona to a touchdown on the opening drive for the fifth straight time this season. This time he uncorked a breathtaking 50-yard rushing touchdown, pointing his finger skyward 44 yards from the end zone.

It was confirmation of Murray’s ceiling, the kind of freak show athleticism that only a few athletes possess.

There were also uncomfortable, ineffective stretches. There were clumsy plays that made you wonder about Marvin Harison Jr. But near the finish, Murray found a way to make things happen. Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing responded to waves of pressure and criticism with some great calls and play designs. And on the other side of the ball, the defense showed incredible courage.

Maybe the Cardinals got a break against a team without Christian McCaffrey and a team that lost its kicker during the game. But no excuses are necessary.

Entering Sunday’s game, the Cardinals were 13-36 in their previous 49 games. That’s a lot to lose for a fanbase that wants to believe. And the locals were clearly growing restless about ownership, the franchise quarterback and a coaching staff that had lost its collective luster.

The Cardinals found something powerful on Sunday. In the heat, on the road and just in time.

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