Rams’ Playoff Hopes Soar After Shocking Wins in Just 5 Days—Can McVay Keep the Momentum?
The Los Angeles Rams have made a statement with two impressive wins in just five days, beating a Super Bowl contender and last year’s NFC champions. The Rams (8-6) are now in firm control of their playoff destiny, heading into the final stretch of the season with confidence.
In a thrilling 44-42 victory over the Buffalo Bills and a gritty 12-6 win against the San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles has shown it can win in vastly different ways, putting them on the verge of the NFC West title and a potential wild-card spot. With seven wins in their last nine games, the Rams are closing in on the Seattle Seahawks (8-5), whom they will face at home next month after securing a thrilling overtime win in Seattle earlier this season.
Rams’ Resilient Victory: Different Styles, Same Outcome
Coach Sean McVay has a lot to review, particularly the defensive struggles in the Buffalo game and the offensive challenges in San Francisco. However, he remains optimistic about the team’s direction, especially considering how the Rams have found different ways to win.
“It says a lot about our team to be able to figure out different ways,” McVay said. “Would you like to put together complete performances across offense, defense, and special teams? Yes, but the enemy has a say, and this league is tough. What I like is that our team plays off each other well enough to ultimately find a way, and I think there’s something to be said for learning how to win, especially with this young group.”
After starting the season with a disappointing 1-4 record, the Rams now have a chance to make the playoffs for the sixth time in McVay’s eight-year tenure. They’ve shown growth and resilience, but recent struggles on both sides of the ball have raised some concerns.
Offensive Struggles: A Tale of Two Games
In their 44-42 win over the Bills, the Rams’ offense was firing on all cylinders, scoring six touchdowns. However, in the rain-soaked game against the 49ers, they struggled to move the ball, gaining just 302 yards—94 of which came in the first three quarters. Matthew Stafford completed only 16 passes in the game, with just eight of them going to wide receivers. Cooper Kupp, the Super Bowl 56 MVP, didn’t record a reception for just the third time in his NFL career, a result of several factors including weather conditions and McVay’s play-calling.
McVay acknowledged that the offensive struggles weren’t Kupp’s fault but instead pointed to issues with the passing attack, which didn’t involve Kupp enough. The Rams failed to score a touchdown in the red zone, going 0-for-3 on drives inside the 49ers’ 11-yard line in the fourth quarter. Los Angeles is currently in the bottom half of the NFL in red-zone touchdown efficiency, which could be a major obstacle as they prepare for the playoffs.
Bright Spots: Defense and Ground Game
While the offense faced challenges, there were several positive developments. Nose tackle Kobie Turner was a standout on defense, recording two sacks, five tackles, and applying pressure that led to a key interception by Darious Williams. Turner, in his second NFL season, has already established himself as a top defensive lineman, drawing double teams similar to the way Aaron Donald did during his prime.
On the offensive side, the Rams’ running game has been a steady force. Kyren Williams, who has rushed for 299 yards and three touchdowns in the past three games, has helped stabilize the offense. The offensive line has also been performing well, particularly in protecting Stafford—allowing no sacks in their last two victories.
Key Players and Injuries
Looking ahead, the Rams are bolstered by the return of tight end Tyler Higbee, who is expected to make his season debut next weekend against the Jets. After tearing ligaments in his knee last season, the veteran tight end has been practicing and could make an impact in the Rams’ passing attack.
However, the Rams have also dealt with injuries. Outside linebacker Nick Hampton is out for the season with a torn pectoral muscle, which is a blow to their defensive depth.
Stock Up and Stock Down: Players to Watch
– Stock Up: Kobie Turner continues to make his mark as a dominant force on the defensive line. His ability to create pressure and disrupt the quarterback has been invaluable to the Rams’ defense.
– Stock Down: Cooper Kupp’s lack of involvement in the 49ers game was a rare blip in an otherwise stellar career. McVay’s play-calling and Stafford’s struggles in the rain contributed to Kupp’s quiet night. The Rams must ensure Kupp is more involved moving forward, especially as the competition intensifies in the postseason.
McVay’s Record and Looking Ahead
McVay has proven his ability to win games on short rest, boasting an impressive 8-1 record in Thursday night games. As the Rams head into the final stretch of the season, they will need to find more consistency on both sides of the ball to ensure a successful playoff push.
With the offense continuing to develop and the defense stepping up, Los Angeles has the potential to make a deep run. But the team must address its red-zone inefficiencies and continue to work through the growing pains of a young roster. The next few games will be crucial as the Rams look to solidify their playoff position and make a run at the NFC West title.
Key Takeaways:
– Rams’ Offensive Inconsistency: After scoring six touchdowns against Buffalo, Los Angeles struggled offensively against San Francisco, failing to score a touchdown and struggling in the red zone.
– Defensive Strengths: Kobie Turner has been a standout performer, and the Rams’ defense continues to improve, despite some issues against high-powered offenses.
– Looking Ahead: With key players like Tyler Higbee returning and the offense stabilizing, the Rams are poised for a playoff run—but they must fix red-zone issues and keep Kupp involved in the offense.
As the Rams continue their playoff push, Sean McVay will need to address these challenges while keeping his team focused on their goal: making the postseason and beyond.
