Los Angeles Rams (4-6) – Seattle Seahawks (6-4): 17-16
The NFC West is far from having delivered its verdict. Leader of this division before the start of this day, Seattle lets the 49ers escape, winners earlier against Tampa Bay. In a match marked by numerous penalties (21 in total), the two teams played a close match.
In the end, unlike last week against the Commanders, Seahawks kicker Jason Myers missed the target from 55 yards. But the reasons for the Seahawks’ defeat lie in discipline. The 12 penalties (for 130 yards) weigh on the result. If Seattle wants to have a chance of reaching the playoffs, Pete Carroll’s men will have to correct that.
After this victory, the Rams are not completely out of the race for the playoffs. Despite a sluggish attack, marked by several offensive penalties, Los Angeles can capitalize on this victory to restart a series. A series that could be done without Cooper Kupp, injured in the ankle.
Cooper Kupp injured again
The visitors dominate the first half. Each offensive series ends with points. Productive, the attack can count on productive receivers. Seven players receive a ball from Geno Smith (22/34, 233 yards, TD). Despite the first series concluded by DK Metcalf (5 REC, 94 yards, TD), the other two only bring three points each from the foot of Jason Myers, still more than perfect. But, the bad news for Seattle is Kenneth Walker’s injury.
Despite Aaron Donald and an astonishing Kobie Turner, the local defense is suffering, particularly in the air. As for the attack, it is discreet (only 94 yards in the first half), but is well helped by the opposing defensive penalties. Fortunately, the first period ended well for her with a touchdown from sensation Puka Nacua (5 REC, 70 yards, TD). Before that, events are often contrary.
At the start of the match, the surprising decision to attempt a 4th attempt a few yards from the touchdown did not pay off. During the 2nd quarter, his star receiver Cooper Kupp returned to the locker room, after suffering an ankle injury. (7-13)
Geno Smith hit
After a pleasant first period, the second period was complicated for both teams. After another field goal from Myers, the two teams made a series of bad plays and bad news. On the Seattle side, Geno Smith injured his arm, tackled by the inevitable Aaron Donald, and joined the bench. In Los Angeles, Matthew Stafford (17/31, 190 yards, TD, INT) was intercepted by Riq Woolen.
But, once again, the lack of discipline will penalize Seattle. Twice, rookie Devon Witherspoon was punished. So Los Angeles benefits. Despite the offensive penalties, the Rams came back through Darrell Henderson Jr (29 yards, TD). (14-16)
This touchdown gives wings to the Rams defense. Replacing Geno Smith, Drew Lock saw his 4th pass of the match for Tyler Lockett (5 REC, 51 yards) intercepted by Derion Kendrick. This interception will be fatal for the Seahawks team, since Los Angeles will let 5 minutes run out on the clock. Time to allow Lucas Havrisik to score the field goal, which will prove to be the victory.
Returning for the last offensive series, Geno Smith gives everything he has, including a throw for DK Metcalf, putting his kicker in a good position. Unfortunately, the final conclusion will not be the same as last week.
The kick is no good and the Rams are going to win! #SEAvsLAR pic.twitter.com/estmZGMDFf
— NFL (@NFL) November 20, 2023
