Los Angeles Rams vs Arizona Cardinals Picks and Predictions December 28th 2024

Rams Seek Fifth Straight Win, Cardinals Battle Injuries in NFC West Clash

The Los Angeles Rams will aim to extend their four-game winning streak and solidify their NFC West title hopes when they host the injury-plagued Arizona Cardinals on Saturday night in Inglewood, Calif.

Rams Finding Their Groove

The Rams (9-6) have turned their season around, winning eight of their last 10 games after a 1-4 start. Their 19-9 victory over the New York Jets last week showcased their ability to grind out wins, even when the offense struggled early.

Coach Sean McVay credited the team’s resilience in navigating through early challenges:

“You don’t want to ride the emotional roller coaster… Our guys have done an excellent job of staying the course.”

One key to the Rams’ success has been the dominance of Kyren Williams, who has elevated the offense with his consistency on the ground. Williams rushed for 122 yards against the Jets, adding to his career-best season totals of 1,243 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. His performance has lightened the load on quarterback Matthew Stafford, who continues to be a stabilizing presence.

The Rams have already secured their seventh winning season under McVay, a remarkable turnaround for a franchise that endured 13 straight non-winning campaigns before his arrival in 2017.

Cardinals Limping to the Finish Line

The Cardinals (7-8) saw their slim playoff hopes evaporate last week after a 36-30 overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers. Adding to their woes, key players like running back James Conner and starting tackles Jonah Williams and Paris Johnson Jr. are dealing with injuries.

Conner, who rushed for 117 yards and a touchdown before leaving with a knee injury, remains a game-time decision. Coach Jonathan Gannon emphasized a competitive mindset despite the team’s playoff elimination:

“If they’re healthy enough to play, they’ll play… We’re gonna play who we think gives us the best chance to win.”

Quarterback Kyler Murray has been one of the few bright spots, passing for 202 yards and a touchdown while rushing for 63 yards and another score against Carolina. However, the absence of key playmakers like Conner could limit the Cardinals’ offensive effectiveness.

Key Matchups

Kyren Williams vs. Arizona Defense

Williams has been the centerpiece of the Rams’ offense, and his ability to exploit a banged-up Cardinals front could dictate the game’s tempo. Arizona will need to find ways to contain him without their top defensive stalwarts.

Matthew Stafford vs. Kyler Murray

Both quarterbacks will play pivotal roles, with Stafford managing a balanced Rams offense and Murray tasked with carrying a depleted Cardinals unit. Turnover-free performances will be crucial for both.

Rams’ Defensive Line vs. Cardinals’ Makeshift O-Line

With injuries to both starting tackles, Arizona’s offensive line faces a daunting challenge. Expect the Rams’ defensive front to dial up pressure and disrupt Murray’s rhythm.

Keys to the Game

Rams

• Control the Run Game: With Williams in peak form, the Rams need to establish the run early and control the clock.
• Defensive Pressure: Exploiting Arizona’s injuries on the offensive line could lead to game-changing turnovers.

Cardinals

• Kyler Murray’s Mobility: Murray must use his legs to create opportunities against the Rams’ defense.
• Limit Big Plays: Keeping the Rams’ offense from finding explosive plays is vital to staying competitive.

Injury Report

• Rams: RT Rob Havenstein (shoulder) – Limited
• Cardinals: RB James Conner (knee) – Limited; S Joey Blount (ribs), CB Elijah Jones (ankle) – DNP

Prediction

The Rams’ momentum and Arizona’s injury woes give Los Angeles a significant edge. While Murray’s playmaking ability could keep the game close, the Rams’ balance on offense and defensive pressure will likely prove too much for the Cardinals to overcome.

Final Score Prediction: Rams 27, Cardinals 17