Los Angeles Rams: 10 wins – 7 losses, NFC West champions, 4th in NFC
Second consecutive appearance for the Los Angeles Rams in the playoffs. After failing to come within a point of the Lions last season, Sean McVay's men intend to defy the odds. The team is almost the same as last season, with one exception. The young people have fangs, and the old people always seem to have football in their hands and legs.
How did they get there?
The same recipe as last season.
Last season after the bye week, the Rams won 7 of their last 8 games. This season, they have won 9 of their last 12 matches after starting the season with 1 victory and 4 defeats. The victory against the Bills in an incredible match is a turning point in their season, and puts them in a positive direction.
Since this match, they have especially been effective defensively. In their 3 consecutive victories over the last 5 matches, the opponent does not exceed 10 points scored. They also benefit from the irregularity of the Seahawks and Cardinals, and the misfortunes of the 49ers in their division.
The key player: Puka Nacua (WR)
Despite an injury that slowed his progress, he is the new number 1 receiver for the Rams.
The former BYU has done a lot of good in Sean McVay's attack since his return. It therefore shows that his rookie season was not a flash in the pan. He is often the one who moves the chains, despite his low total number of touchdowns in the regular season (3).
Of course, other receivers will be worth watching in the Rams offense. But, Puka Nacua is now a receiver who defenders will have a closer eye on. Failing to stop him can mean big trouble for the opponents.
Why are they going to go through with it?
Thanks to the genius of Sean McVay. The coach has experience and is always able to pull a trick out of his hat.
For this he has Matthew Stafford who is the mastermind of this attack. His regular season is clean and his experience can be beneficial to young players when the moments are decisive. For this, he can be helped by his duo of receivers Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp and an effective ground game, with Kyren Williams. The running back was dazzling with 14 touchdowns, and another season with more than 1,000 yards.
Carelessness can also be one of these important factors in times when you don't expect it. Like last season, the Rams do not have the pressure, nor an obligation to achieve a result. These playoffs are therefore synonymous with bonuses and experience to be gained for young players thirsty for these meetings.
Why won't they go?
Matthew Stafford is 36 years old. He still has precision, and can still have brilliant shots. But he is no longer this elite quarterback who can change the game with a genius improvisation. It is therefore up to the offensive line to block opposing pass rushers to allow them to throw.
The carelessness mentioned in the last paragraph can quickly turn into moments of panic, especially on defense. The departure of Aaron Donald in the offseason was compensated for in the regular season. But, in the playoffs, his absence and his experience will probably be missed.
Behind this defensive line, air or ground cover could suffer in the face of more comprehensive attacks. Darious Williams and Akhello Witherspoon have already seen the color of a Super Bowl, but they are very alone compared to the rest of the Rams defensive staff.
Injured players
Only one notable absentee should be noted. Injured in the arm during the last game of the regular season, rookie replacement running back Blake Corum will miss the playoffs.
Cornerback Derion Kendrick has been out for a very long time due to a torn cruciate knee ligament, he will also be out during these playoffs. However, the Rams could see the return of 2 important players defensively: linebacker Troy Reeder (hamstring) and safety John Johnson III (shoulder).
Prognosis
The Los Angeles Rams will face the Minnesota Vikings, a team they beat in late October. That day, Matthew Stafford was on fire with 4 touchdowns, including 2 for DeMarcus Robinson.
So this is going to be a confrontation between 2 young innovative coaches. But, given the season and the form of Kevin O'Connell's team, it would be surprising to see the Rams beat them with the Vikings hungry for revenge.
If there is a surprise, dreams can be allowed with several possible adversaries. A trip to the Lions or the Eagles, or the reception of the Commanders. But the road to the Super Bowl seems complicated for a team that is still young.
