Los Angeles Rams (10-6) – Arizona Cardinals (7-9): 13-9
The Rams qualified for the playoffs after a match where they were generally dominated. If the defense nevertheless showed signs of strength, notably by Jared Verse, and its ability to be decisive. The attack and Matthew Stafford (17/32, 189 yards) will have to do better to hope for more than a simple ticket. Fortunately, Puka Nacua (10 receptions, 129 yards) is there.
The Cardinals lose in the most Cardinal way possible. Authors of a better match than against the Panthers, they failed once again in stoppage time despite a great Trey McBride (12 receptions, 123 yards, 1 touchdown).
Jared Verse, great architect of the Rams’ qualification
The first quarter is very defensive. But two styles clash. The Cardinals, faithful to their last outings, are cautious in each series of games. It must be said that it is the Rams' special teams who do the work by pushing the opponents far into their camp. On the other side of the ball Matthew Stafford struggles to find his rhythm and makes imprecise passes under pressure. The running game doesn't help, perfectly stopped by the Cardinals defensive line.
If the Rams defense bends a little more than its counterpart, it does not break. Jared Verse (EDGE) makes a very important stop on a fourth attempt in the scoring zone. Then the leader in predictions in the category defensive rookie of the year destroys a following drive with multiple pressures and a sack.
Success in your pocket
Like a team in confidence facing one in distress, the game is a demonstration of pragmatism on the part of the Rams against a master class of errors on the part of the Cardinals. On a sluggish drive, Matthew Stafford narrowly misses being intercepted a couple of times but succeeds in converting big plays. Finally Kyren Williams (13 races, 56 yards, 1 touchdown) finished strongly to open the scoring in the second quarter (7-0).
Arizona is repeatedly reminded of interesting actions for a multitude of mistakes. The entire rule book is studied from holding usual, including the false start and the ineligible player on the field. The Rams take advantage of the refereeing generosity to add three points before the break (10-0).
Trey McBride and Puca Nacua at the 1000 club
The second quarter allows us to see Trey McBride at work again, the tight end exceeds the symbolic bar of 1000 receiving yards for the first time in his career. He joins Brock Bowers in this category this season for players at their position.
The night doesn't stop here for Trey McBride. Christmas miracle, on the first drive of the second half, the player scores his first receiving touchdown of the season! But the transformation is blocked, like a twist of fate (10-6). Trey McBride completes a special trinity this season: 1 receiving touchdown, 1 rushing touchdown and 1 touchdown on a covered fumble.
Puca Nacua also managed to pass 1000 yards receiving. The receiver achieved the feat of consistency in just 12 games this season. He therefore continues his season streak of more than 1000 yards that began last year during his rookie year.
Kyler Murray still can't do it
The Cardinals quarterback (33/48, 321 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions) blew the heat, especially in the second period where his connection with Marvin Harrison Jr. (6 receptions, 96 yards) was finally seen, but also the cold. Once again in the final minutes, he failed to be decisive. At first he failed to convert a 4e crucial attempt that turned into an interception. In a second, his last series ended just as cruelly. His final pass in the direction of Trey McBride hits the tight end's helmet, the ball flies away and falls into the hands of Akhello Witherspoon. End of the match (13-9).
