Puka Nacua showcased an impressive performance with 129 yards receiving, playing a crucial role in the Los Angeles Rams’ narrow 13-9 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Kyren Williams contributed significantly as well, scoring the only touchdown for the Rams (10-6) during a challenging offensive night. The team had to endure a tense fourth quarter but ultimately secured their fifth consecutive victory against their divisional rivals.
The match brought the Rams tantalizingly close to clinching the NFC West title as they edged out the Cardinals. Williams crossed the goal line from just one yard out in the second quarter, marking the Rams’ sole touchdown of the evening. Joshua Karty’s two field goals added to the score, providing just enough cushion. However, the game was far from straightforward; it was Ahkello Witherspoon’s remarkable diving interception in the end zone with only 37 seconds left on the clock that sealed the deal for Los Angeles, ensuring their hard-fought win.
This victory propels the Rams to a commendable 10-6 record, positioning them one game ahead of the Seattle Seahawks as they prepare for a significant matchup in the final round of the regular season next week. The situation for the Rams is clear; they hold the edge in the division standings, but they could face challenges if they don’t secure the title outright. A loss next week, combined with a series of unfavorable outcomes for other teams, could see them miss out on the championship in a tiebreaker, which will hinge on the relative strength of their schedule.
Matthew Stafford, the Rams’ quarterback, reflected on their performance, stating, “We didn’t do a whole lot great, to be honest with you. Didn’t run it great. Didn’t throw it great. But found a way to get a win and get enough points.” This sentiment encapsulated the struggle the team faced offensively, as they fought to grind out a victory despite not hitting their stride.
Looking ahead, the Rams will host the Seahawks (9-7) in their regular-season finale, and there is the possibility for them to clinch McVay’s fourth division title before even stepping on the field. The Rams’ fate hinges on the outcomes of games involving the Bills, Browns, Vikings, Commanders, and 49ers; if these teams can collectively secure three wins—or even two wins and a tie—over the next two days, Los Angeles will become the NFC West champions based on their superior strength of schedule, irrespective of the result against Seattle.
For the Cardinals (7-9), it was a frustrating night. Kyler Murray threw for 321 yards but also struggled, throwing two critical interceptions late in the game. Despite driving into Rams territory three times in the fourth quarter, Arizona could only muster a mere three points. In a nail-biting finish, Arizona found themselves on the Los Angeles five-yard line in the dying moments. However, the Rams deployed an aggressive all-out blitz on first down, leading to a pivotal moment. Murray’s swift pass deflected off tight end Trey McBride’s helmet, and Witherspoon’s extraordinary 10-fingertip interception in the end zone was upheld by video review, despite the ball briefly touching the ground between his hands, ultimately confirming the defensive stand that secured the Rams’ victory.
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