The Los Angeles Rams acquired the chance to have a good time throughout Week 17 as they gained the NFC West after beating the Arizona Cardinals and seeing a sequence of matchups go their method.
Not solely did the Rams win the division, however in addition they noticed the Seattle Seahawks get eradicated from playoff competition regardless of their very own Week 17 win in opposition to the Chicago Bears.
Whereas Seattle has nothing left to play for this season, the sport nonetheless carries playoff seeding ramifications for Los Angeles. The Rams will host a Wild Card recreation it doesn’t matter what, however may enter the 2025 NFL Playoffs as both the third or fourth seed.
A win for Los Angeles would safe the third seed, however a loss plus a Tampa Bay Buccaneers win would drop them to the fourth seed. Whereas profitable and claiming the third seed can be extra advantageous, head coach Sean McVay has already introduced a number of gamers will miss the competition.
Well being was a serious concern for the Rams to start the 2024 season, so it’s good for McVay and the group to relaxation their key regulars earlier than the postseason.
Rams Offense vs. Seahawks Protection
McVay will likely be sitting out most of his offensive starters in opposition to the Seahawks. Matthew Stafford, Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua, Kyren Williams, Alaric Jackson and Kevin Dotson will all be sitting, whereas different gamers like Steve Avila and Beaux Limmer might be pulled early. Rob Havenstein will miss the sport resulting from harm, although might be able to go for the playoffs.
Jimmy Garoppolo is in line to make his first begin this season, together with Blake Corum who will likely be changing Williams. In the meantime, gamers like Jordan Whittington and Tutu Atwell will deal with the majority of receiver obligations.
The Seahawks protection has been stable for the common season, although may additionally sit some starters given the shortage of stakes.
Rams Protection vs. Seahawks Offense
The entire Rams’ defensive starters are anticipated to play, although will doubtless be restricted. Due to the group’s collective youth, McVay will give them extra reps to tune up for the postseason although ought to ultimately sit them as properly.
In the meantime, the Seahawks may decide to play veterans like Geno Smith who’ve contract incentives they will obtain. Seattle would additionally most likely need to finish the season on a excessive be aware, so that they’ll be a lot motivated.
Rams Keys to Victory
1. Get Jimmy Garoppolo right into a passing rhythm early
Garoppolo could also be a backup, however he has lots of expertise as a starter within the NFL and may be capable to maintain the offense on schedule. Dialing up straightforward throws for Garoppolo needs to be a precedence for McVay so the veteran can shake some rust off.
2. Power Geno Smith out of the pocket
Smith is a wonderful passer when he has time to work in a clear pocket, however isn’t nice when throwing off the transfer. Seattle’s offensive line has been shaky this season, so Los Angeles ought to have alternatives to generate strain on Smith.
