News Rams Team Notes

[Los Angeles Rams]

LA Rams playoff picture: What Week 16 vs. Seahawks means for NFC standings

The Los Angeles Rams hit the road to Seattle to face off against the Seahawks on a highly anticipated NFC West matchup. This division has been a tight race with the Rams and Seahawks each sitting at 11-3, and the San Francisco 49ers right on their heels at 10-4. Neither team could clinch the division based on the outcome of Thursday Night Football, but the Seahawks’ overtime win in what ended up being an absolute heartbreaker for the Rams, did shake up the NFC West and NFC playoff picture to start Week 16.

The Rams were at the top of the NFC West heading into Week 16 thanks to a head-to-head win percentage tiebreaker. The Seahawks, who came back from a 16-point deficit in the fourth quarter to win on a two-point conversion in overtime, now sit atop the the NFC West and hold the top seed in the NFC playoff picture.

Los Angeles faces a very beatable, but mildly unpredictable Atlanta Falcons team on the road on Monday Night Football in Week 17, and they’ll finish off the season at home against another beatable team, the Arizona Cardinals, who lost to Atlanta on Sunday at home.

Thanks to a Lions loss to the Steelers with an extremely wild ending, both the 49ers and Bears clinched postseason berths on Sunday.

Here’s where LA stands after Sunday’s late afternoon slate.

Join the conversation!​

Sign up for a user account and get:

• Fewer ads
• Create community posts
• Comment on articles, community posts
• Rec comments, community posts
• New, improved notifications system!

NFC West standings​

1. Seattle Seahawks 12-3
2. Los Angeles Rams 11-4
3. San Francisco 49ers 10-4
4. Arizona Cardinals 3-12

Current NFC playoff picture​

1. Seattle Seahawks 12-3 (clinched playoff spot)
2. Chicago Bears 11-4 (clinched playoff spot)
3. Philadelphia Eagles 10-5 (clinched NFC East)
4. Carolina Panthers 8-7
5. Los Angeles Rams 11-4 (clinched playoff spot)
6. San Francisco 49ers 10-4 (clinched playoff spot)
7. Green Bay Packers 9-5-1
8. Detroit Lions 8-7
9. Carolina Panthers 7-7

NFC teams eliminated from playoff contention​

• Dallas Cowboys
• Minnesota Vikings
• Atlanta Falcons
• Arizona Cardinals
• New Orleans Saints
• Washington Commanders
• New York Giants

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...-west-standings-wild-card-seeding-tiebreakers

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

The Rams’ narrow path to first place in NFC

Thursday night’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks was a dramatic blow to the Los Angeles Rams. LA is now unlikely to win the NFC West and may need to play three road games in order to reach the Super Bowl. The path just grew much more difficult.

There remains a sliver of hope that the Rams could find themselves on top of their division and in first place of the conference. Whoever takes the NFC West is also likely to take the first-round bye into the playoffs. Los Angeles should find comfort in this.

While the Rams no longer control their destiny, there is still a reasonable—albeit narrow—road for them to finish as division and regular season conference winners. Rams fans, this is your rooting guide for the final two weeks of the season:

Remaining schedules:​

• Rams: Falcons, Cardinals
• Seahawks: Panthers, 49ers
• 49ers: Colts, Bears, Seahawks
• Bears: 49ers, Lions

All of the aforementioned teams are in the NFC playoff hunt aside from the Cardinals. The Rams have the easiest path of all teams to finish the year 2-0. The Lions may finish on the outside looking in; however, they could still be fighting for their life in Week 18 and are unlikely to lay down for a division foe even if they are out of contention.

This is how the chips have to fall in order for the Rams to finish in first place:

1 – 49ers lose to either the Colts or Bears

2 – Bears lose to either the 49ers or Lions*

3 – Seahawks lose to either the Panthers or 49ers

*If the 49ers beat the Colts on Monday night, SF winning against Chicago effectively sets up a “winner take all” Week 18 game between Seahawks-49ers assuming Seattle wins in Week 17.

Week 16 odds:​

49ers are 5.5-point road favorites over the Colts.

Week 17 odds:​

Seattle is a 7.5-point road favorite over the Panthers.

San Francisco is favored at home to top Chicago by 2.5 points.

Rams are 8.5-point road favorites over Atlanta.

Final thoughts:​

The most probable path for the Rams in is to hope for a Week 17 Bears road win over the 49ers.

This outcome would effectively eliminate the 49ers’ chances to win the NFC West, assuming Seattle doesn’t surprisingly fall to Carolina. In other words, we cannot rule out the 49ers resting their starters in Week 18 and handing Seattle a victory and the division.

If the 49ers do decide to go toe-to-toe with the Seahawks, the Rams will root for a San Francisco victory.

It’s a narrow path for the Rams, but it is within the realm of possibility.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-schedule/132228/rams-nfc-west-one-seed-playoffs

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

49ers can knock Rams down a peg tonight

If the San Francisco 49ers beat the Indianapolis Colts on Monday, the Los Angeles Rams will slip from the 5 seed to the 6 seed in the NFC playoff picture. It’s a remarkable turnaround from where these teams were at going into their Week 5 matchup — an overtime win by the 49ers — and L.A.‘s revenge win in Week 10.

Going into Week 5, the Rams were 3-1 and 9-point favorites over a 49ers team that suffered injuries all over the roster, including to quarterback Brock Purdy.

But the 49ers lost three of their next five, including that 42-26 loss to L.A., and most were writing them off at 6-4 and losing ground on a playoff spot. Now the 49ers could go from out of the playoffs to holding the number one seed.

Unbelievable.

The 49ers have won four straight and the Rams have lost two of their last three. With a better divisional and conference record, the 49ers hold the head-to-head tiebreaker over L.A. and would improve to the 5-seed if they beat the Colts on Monday night.

Talk about the game with other Rams fans right here!

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...68/49ers-rams-playoff-picture-colts-scenarios

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams possibly traded away the defensive rookie of the year

Nearly every NFL media consumer felt the Los Angeles Rams fleeced the Atlanta Falcons earlier this year during the 2025 draft. Atlanta sent LA their 2026 first-round pick in exchange for the opportunity to select Tennessee EDGE James Pearce 26th overall.

While the Falcons felt confident in their ability to win the NFC South, quarterback Michael Penix, Jr. did not take the step forward the team was expecting. Atlanta instead opened the year with a 3-7 record. Penix suffered a season-ending injury and the 2026 first rounder seemed destined to land in the top 10.

But Kirk Cousins has other plans in mind, and apparently so does Pearce. Cousins has led Atlanta to two-straight wins over the Buccaneers and Cardinals. Pearce now has eight sacks and is shooting up the defensive rookie of the year list.

The Falcons are squarely out of contention this season. Still, the trade that once looked very one-sided now seems like a miss opportunity for the Rams.

Falcons EDGE James Pearce Jr. (EDGE3-Tier 1/Bluechip) is tied for the 6th most pressures in the NFL since week 10. In this span, he's recorded a sack in every game.. pic.twitter.com/FmZnLqqvv0

— Adam Carter (@impactfbdata) December 16, 2025

NFL DROY Odds:​

These were the opening odds for NFL defensive rookie of the year at the season’s opening:

• Abdul Carter (+240)
• Jalon Walker (+550)
• Mason Graham (+750)
• Mykel Williams (+900)
• Travis Hunter (+1000)
• Shemar Stewart (+1200)
• Donovan Ezeiruaku (+1700)
• Mike Green (+1900)
• Jihaad Campbell (+2000)
• James Pearce Jr. (+2200)
• Walter Nolen (+2300)
• Malarki Starks (+2300)
• Will Johnson (+2300)
• Jahdae Barron (+2700)
• JT Tuimoloau (+2800)
• Nick Emmanowori (+4000)

Ahead of the final two regular season games, this is now where the leaderboard stands:

• Carson Schwesinger (-800)
• Nick Emmanwori (+750)
• James Pearce (+750)

Schwesinger is the favorite, though he wasn’t even on the radar back in September. It’s a difficult path for off-ball linebackers to earn these honors, and I believe Pearce still has a realistic chance to take the award.

The last off-ball linebacker to win DROY was Shaquille Leonard in 2018. Since then, five EDGE rushers and one corner have taken up the mantle:

• 2018 – Shaquille Leonard, LB; Colts
• 2019 – Nick Bosa, EDGE; 49ers
• 2020 – Chase Young, EDGE; Football Team
• 2021 – Micah Parsons, EDGE; Cowboys
• 2022 – Sauce Gardner, CB; Jets
• 2023 – Will Anderson, EDGE; Texans
• 2024 – Jared Verse, EDGE; Rams

Pearce is coming on at the right time, and he could change award voters’ minds at the close of the regular season. The rookie has posted sacks in six-straight games and is up to eight on the year. Jared Verse won DROY with just 4.5 sacks a year ago, though his advanced pass rushing metrics and pressures showed consistent production even without QB takedowns.

James Pearce Jr. last seven games:

8 sacks
5 passes defended
1 forced fumble pic.twitter.com/9u3SBh1JdQ

— Rise Up Bijan (@RiseUpReader) December 22, 2025

Should the Rams have taken Pearce?​

This is a difficult question to answer.

We know that Matthew Stafford is closer to the end of his career than the beginning. How much longer can he realistically be expected to play? He missed all of training camp and the preseason with a back injury, and then defied the odds on his way to a MVP campaign.

The bottom line is that it doesn’t matter what position the Rams’ roster is for the team’s next era if they don’t successfully stick the landing from Stafford to the next guy.

Having Atlanta’s 2026 first rounder is a valuable tool to have in the Rams’ belt if they are going to move up for a quarterback. They could also find a way to push the first rounder back a year and prepare to take a quarterback in 2027. Either way, if the pick is used to land the next franchise quarterback, missing out on a plus pass rusher simply becomes a speed bump and a minor detriment.

But let’s be honest. The Rams could have used Pearce this season. LA’s pass rush does not seem as formidable as it did a year ago. Verse and Braden Fiske—former Florida State teammates—aren’t as productive as they were last season. Los Angeles also has one more year to enjoy the rookie contracts of Byron Young and Kobie Turner before they will need to decide to either pay up or let them walk.

You can never have too many EDGE’s, and taking Pearce would have improved the Rams in 2025 and futureproofed the position in case they walk away from Young.

What once seemed like a wild thought could now be the reality for the Rams. They might have missed out on the NFL’s defensive rookie of the year.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-draft/132282/rams-falcons-trade-james-pearce

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Survey: How confident are Rams fans? Week 17

The Rams fell from the 1-seed to the 5-seed after losing to the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday, and L.A.’s drop may not stop there. Or the Rams could end up back in first place and earn a bye week. There’s a wide array of possibilities open now and a few things were clear last week:

1. The Rams are very hard to stop when Puka Nacua is rolling
2. The Rams have a debilitating weakness on special teams
3. Matthew Stafford can run cold when he has a lead

From 9-2 to 11-4, the Rams no longer have control. They could win their last two games and still be on the road in the playoffs. So how confident are you in the direction of the team?

Fans vote in the Reacts survey every week and the results will be posted on Friday.

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Rams fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...80/survey-how-confident-are-rams-fans-week-17

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

L.A. Rams News: Playoffs’ eve

Happy and Merry Christmas Eve! If you do not celebrate Christmas that is alright, welcome to the Turf Show Times. We are on the eve of the NFL playoffs; the table is getting set. The Los Angeles Rams are in, so are a number of teams. Much is still to be determined. It’s a wild time.

My hope is that you and your family enjoy the holiday. If you work today then that is lame, but get through it, then enjoy your time!

I don’t have much, but thank you for checking out Turf Show Times. Thanks for hanging out with us and have a great day!

NFC playoff picture: Rams have No. 6 seed entering Week 17 (nfl.com)​

“A combination of their Thursday Night Football loss to the Seahawks and the 49ers’ Monday Night Football road win over the Colts in Week 16 slid the Rams from the No. 1 seed to the No. 6 seed in the NFC playoff picture.

Overall, five NFC teams – including Los Angeles – have clinched a playoff berth so far.

Here’s what that full NFC playoff picture looks like and how various Week 17 matchups – including the Rams’ against the Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Monday Night Football – will impact the playoff picture.“

Rams Have One Clear Advantage Over Falcons (si.com)​

“The Los Angeles Rams will be back on the field for their Monday Night Football showdown with the Atlanta Falcons to close out Week 17 of the 2025 NFL season.

This is going to be another huge game for the Rams as they are looking to improve their NFC seeding if they can. While the Falcons are looking to put on a major upset to make sure that the Rams’ first-round pick next season is not in the top 10. The Rams own the Falcons’ round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.“

Rams vs. Falcons Prediction, Odds, Spread, Injuries, Trends for NFL Week 17 (si.com)​

“The Los Angeles Rams stumbled against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 16, but are still alive for the top spot in the NFC West and the No. 1 seed in the NFC. Unfortunately, they’ll likely need to win out and have some things break their way for that to happen, but the first step is making sure they take care of business against the Atlanta Falcons in the Week 17 edition of Monday Night Football.

The Falcons’ season has been over for a while, but they have one final chance to salvage some time in a prime-time slot. Also, considering the Rams currently hold the Falcons’ first-round draft pick in 2026, Atlanta has a chance to hurt Los Angeles in more ways than one by pulling off the upset.“

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/132350/la-rams-news-playoffschristmas-eve

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Which Rams players got snubbed from the Pro Bowl?

The NFL announced its Pro Bowl rosters on Tuesday and the Los Angeles Rams had four players make it for the NFC. Among those four players were Puka Nacua, Matthew Stafford, Jared Verse, and Byron Young. Not every player can make the Pro Bowl roster, but the Rams certainly had a few players miss out who were deserving. Below are the biggest Pro Bowl snubs for the Rams.

1. LB Nate Landman​

Linebacker spots on Pro Bowl rosters can be difficult to come by as only two players make it from each conference. Jack Campbell from the Detroit Lions was always going to be a lock. However, while Zack Baun has been good, he hasn’t been as good as he was last year. Baun isn’t inside the top-20 in tackles and has just two interceptions.

Nate Landman has four forced fumbles this season and has completely changed the Rams defense. Landman was playing so well, the Rams opted to give him an in-season extension and not allow him to hit the free agent market this spring. Landman has arguably been a top-10 linebacker against the run this season and he has shown his play-making ability as he leads all linebackers with four forced fumbles. Landman had a Pro Bowl-caliber season, but unfortunately there just aren’t enough spots available.

2. S Kam Curl​

The biggest snub for the Rams when it comes to the 2026 Pro Bowl is Kam Curl. It’s a shame that the Rams don’t have one of their safeties making the Pro Bowl because it’s been one of the better safety groups across the NFL. Unfortunately for Quentin Lake, an injury hurt his chances after he was having a Pro Bowl type year. However, Curl still should have gotten Pro Bowl recognition, especially over Budda Baker.

According to PFF, Baker has ranked 64th out of 66 safeties this season. Meanwhile, Curl is the top-rated safety defending the run and one of the best tackling safeties in the NFL. He also ranks fourth among safeties in tackles. Baker has the name recognition, but he’s had one of the worst seasons of his career. It would have been nice to see Curl get some recognition.

3. DL Poona Ford​

Much like linebacker, the defensive line position group is tough to make it when it comes to the Pro Bowl. Still, Jalen Carter had a down season and Leonard Williams simply wasn’t among the best defensive linemen in the NFC. Quinnen Williams added some quality to the defensive line in the NFC after being traded to the Dallas Cowboys and has been stellar against the run.

However, Poona Ford has been the second-highest graded defensive lineman against the run this season via PFF. He may only have two sacks, but that’s also not something he’s asked to do. Still, he has a higher win-rate than Carter and is only slightly behind Williams. Ford is consistently one of those players that gets underappreciated because he does the dirty work on the defensive line. He’s had a great year and should have gotten more Pro Bowl consideration.

4. WR Davante Adams​

How is it possible that the wide receiver with the most receiving touchdowns isn’t going to make the Pro Bowl? In all likelihood only one Rams wide receiver was going to make the Pro Bowl and that was always going to be Nacua. However, what Adams has done this season can’t go completely unnoticed. Coming into the season, there were questions about what Adams the Rams were going to get. They may not have gotten prime Adams, but his 14 touchdowns are the most in a season since 2022.

Had Adams not gotten hurt, he may have set the franchise’s single season record for receiving touchdowns. Adams finished with 14 and would have needed 17 to tie the record. He would have needed three touchdowns over the final three weeks. Given his pace, that was certainly within the realm of possibility. Adams has taken the Rams’ red zone offense to a level that we haven’t seen under Sean McVay. He may not have the yards, but Adams’ impact has been felt.

5. iOL Kevin Dotson​

Similar to Ford, Kevin Dotson is one of the most underrated offensive linemen in the NFL. The Rams have a dominant run game and it’s a shame that not a single player in their starting five is going to represent them in the Pro Bowl. It also shows just how good they are as a unit rather than just a collection of individual players.

With that said, Dotson has been close to dominant this year. His 89.3 run-blocking grade ranks third in the NFL and is a career-high. He also has a higher pass-blocking grade than Tyler Smith who made it over him. The Rams have one of the best run games in the NFL in large part because of Dotson. He’s had a fantastic year despite his right tackle changing three different times. For years, Rodger Saffold was a staple at left guard on that side of the offensive line and rarely got recognized. Dotson may be headed on that same path.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-analysis/132375/rams-pro-bowl-snubs-2026

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

L.A. Rams News: Merry Christmas, happy holdidays! Did you get what you wanted?

Merry Christmas to those who celebrate! If you don’t celebrate Christmas that is alright, we still want you to have a great day and or holiday! Did you get what you wanted for Christmas? Was what you wanted a new Special Team Coordinator for the rest of the season? Wish granted, as it’s well known by now that the Los Angeles Rams moved on from Chase Blackburn.

Will this fix their special teams’ issues? We will have to find out.

I want to thank all our commenters, readers and everyone! Thanks for checking out Turf Show Times and enjoy the holiday!

Sean McVay explains decision to fire Chase Blackburn with 2 weeks left (ramswire)​

“McVay had never fired a coordinator in-season before but it’s clear his frustrations had boiled over with the Rams’ struggling special teams group. Thursday was just the final straw.

During his press conference on Monday, McVay explained the decision to move on from Blackburn with two weeks left in the regular season, citing the confidence he has in the Rams – a suggestion that the special teams unit was holding them back.“

Rams Rumors on Davante Adams’ Injury, Timeline to Return amid NFL Super Bowl 2026 Push (bleacherreport)​

“Coach Sean McVay already declared Adams doubtful for Monday night vs. [the Atlanta Falcons], and a team source told me that it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Adams miss Week 18 vs. [the Arizona Cardinals], another game the Rams can win without their star receiver,” Fowler explained. “The goal is to ensure Adams is 100 percent for the first week of the playoffs. Technically, he’s week-to-week with an injury that hampered him weeks before he aggravated it vs. Detroit on Dec. 14.”

Rams designate CB Roger McCreary to return from IR (ramswire)​

“It was announced that McCreary returned to practice, so he’s working his way back from a hip injury that has caused him to miss the last four games.

McCreary injured his hip on his first defensive snap as a member of the Rams in Week 12 against the Buccaneers, exiting on the opening drive. Sean McVay said afterwards that McCreary probably could’ve gone back in the game but the Rams played it safe and held him out.“

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/132378/la-rams-news-merry-christmas-nfl

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams need to find ‘killer instinct’ in fourth quarter

The Los Angeles Rams have lost four games this season and all four of them have one thing in common. This is a team that has too often disappeared in the fourth quarter when it matters most. That was the complete opposite in 2021 when the Rams won the Super Bowl

A common them in all four of the Rams’ losses is that the offense had a chance to take the lead or tie the game late. While Stafford had three fourth-quarter comebacks and three game-winning drives in 2021, he has just one this season against the Indianapolis Colts.

In the loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Josh Karty’s game-winning kick was blocked. After Stafford led the offense to the one-yard line against the San Francisco 49ers, Kyren Williams fumbled at the goal line when a touchdown would have given the Rams the lead. With the offense in field goal range against the Carolina Panthers, Stafford fumbled. Finally, last week against the Seattle Seahawks, the Rams blew a 16-point lead as the offense went three-and-out multiple times and Harrison Mevis missed a 48-yard field goal.

The defense has had moments. They held their ground in the Week 1 win to the Houston Texans and got the game-clinching interception against the Indianapolis Colts. The defense forced the Seahawks to use clock and settle for a 61-yard field goal in Week 11 that was missed. However, there are stretches in the fourth quarter where the defense tends to disappear.

Performance in 1-Score Games

Here are some different conditions and overall performance of the defense in 1-score games (excluding games that are not close).

As we can see, the Rams defense performs the worst when the Rams have a 90%+ chance to win.

22% explosive rate… pic.twitter.com/eCxpoFGslo

— Josh (@JoshiosTweets) December 20, 2025

The Rams defense was built to thrive in situations in which they are leading by double-digits and can unleash the pass rush. With that said, too often this season, that’s when teams have had the most success. Because teams are having to throw the ball more from behind, it has left the secondary more vulnerable, especially if the pass rush isn’t getting home.

Oddly enough, this is when the Rams defense has seemingly struggled the most. They’ve struggled with a positive game script. While they still do well in third-and-long situation, they haven’t found that same success when having a lead. When teams are forced to throw on early downs and play catch-up, they are having success. Jalen Hurts hadn’t thrown for over 200 yards or a single touchdown pass. Hurts eclipsed 200 yards against the Rams while throwing three second half touchdowns. The ethos of the defense is to limit explosive plays. Yet, the fourth quarter is when they are allowing them the most. The Rams defense has allowed a 36.9 percent explosive play rate in the fourth quarter and overtime.

Since 2023 in OT, the Rams defense is

4th worst in Success Rate (63%)
5th worst in EPA Allowed (6.93)
13th worst in Explosive Rate (17.1%)

This season, the Rams defense has allowed 36.9% of all explosive plays in the 4th quarter + overtime, the highest in the league. https://t.co/zvzlfxs2GN

— Josh (@JoshiosTweets) December 20, 2025

This isn’t to say that this Rams team isn’t great because they’ve faltered late in close games. The Rams are 4-4 in one-score games this season. It’s almost more impressive that in a league that prides itself on close games, the Rams haven’t found themselves in those situations often. Since the bye week, the Rams have won games by an average of 17.3 points.

Stafford may not have his fourth quarter comebacks and game-winning drives, but it’s not as if he isn’t playing well. Stafford’s 0.34 EPA per play in the fourth quarter ranks second among quarterbacks. Defensively, the Rams still ranked 11th with -0.03 EPA per play. That’s better than they were in 2021 at 0.06. The Rams have the fourth-best fourth quarter offense.

There are 23 quarters of football where the Rams defense did not force a single negative play (excluding turnovers).

Although blowouts and game script can explain some, the quarters below showcase the struggle to disrupt the game when it matters most. pic.twitter.com/p6fgfMJBOL

— Josh (@JoshiosTweets) December 23, 2025

Football is a complementary sport. When one unit isn’t at its best, the other needs to be able to carry the load during that stretch. That’s happened in several games this season. The defense held up in the Week 11 win to the Seahawks, especially in the second and third quarters when the offense couldn’t move the ball. When the defense struggled in Week 10, the offense scored 42 points against the 49ers.

However, too often this season, both units disappear at the same time. After the Rams went up 26-7 against the Eagles, they didn’t score on their next four possessions as the defense allowed three touchdowns in four drives. To start the game against the 49ers, the defense allowed 17 points on the first four drives on the field while the offense didn’t score until 2:09 was left in the second quarter.

There are 9 quarters of football where the Rams defense did not record a pressure via NGS. Some notable quarters:

Week 11 Quarter 1 vs. SEA
Week 13 Quarter 3 at CAR
Week 16 Quarter 1 at SEA
Week 16 Quarter 2 at SEA

— Josh (@JoshiosTweets) December 23, 2025

That continued in Week 16 against the Seahawks. The offense went five straight possessions without a score in the fourth quarter. While the defense only allowed one touchdown drive, it was an explosive play and they allowed two two-point conversions. That doesn’t mention the one that they allowed in overtime.

During the 2021 season, it was almost a given that if Matthew Stafford had the ball with the game on the line, the Rams were going to win. That just hasn’t happened this season. When Stafford has put the Rams in position to win late, special teams or the players around him have faltered. Even when they haven’t, Stafford had the fumble against the Panthers.

In the late game situations, the Rams simply haven’t been as good as they have been in years past. While the Rams have blown out teams this season, the margins are going to get thinner in the playoffs. The Rams have won multiple one-score games consecutively and they’ll need to be able to string a few of those wins together to win the Super Bowl.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...351/rams-fourth-quarter-struggles-close-games

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Report: Rams will shutdown Davante Adams for final 2 games

The Los Angeles Rams didn’t have a hard time scoring points without Davante Adams for most of their Week 16 game against the Seattle Seahawks and that’s something that Sean McVay will probably have to repeat at least two more times according to a report by ESPN on Wednesday. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Rams will be careful with Adams and likely keep him on the sideline for L.A.‘s final two games of the regular season in the hopes that he will be able to return for the playoffs.

The Rams very well could shut down Davante Adams (hamstring) for the final two regular-season games. Coach Sean McVay already declared Adams doubtful for Monday night vs. Atlanta, and a team source told me that it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Adams miss Week 18 vs. Arizona, another game the Rams can win without their star receiver. The goal is to ensure Adams is 100 percent for the first week of the playoffs. Technically, he’s week-to-week with an injury that hampered him weeks before he aggravated it vs. Detroit on Dec. 14.

Keep in mind that the Rams are shutting down Adams with a huge playoff race yet to be decided in the NFC: L.A. could win the NFC West and even the number one seed if they win their final two games. It could be the difference between having a bye week, hosting a playoff game, or going on the road to either the three seed or the four seed. Instead of getting the bye week, a loss could mean going on the road to face the Philadelphia Eagles.

The difference in outcomes based on Rams wins or losses could have massive playoff implications.

The 33-year-old receiver has now missed games with injury at the end of each of the last two seasons, dating back to 2024 with the New York Jets. As with any football player, the risk of missing important games due to injury increases with every year that he’s in the NFL. Adams was able to deal with his hamstring injury this season for only so long until it took him out of L.A.‘s Week 15 win over the Detroit Lions and held him out of Thursday’s loss to the Seahawks.

Fowler: Davante Adams (hamstring) could be "shut down" for final 2 regular-season games in an effort to be fully healthy for playoffs. pic.twitter.com/d5xffMp2qe

— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) December 24, 2025

The Rams were running up and down the field for the first three quarters and overtime of that game, but it is also abundantly obvious that Matthew Stafford only has one viable, reliable receiving weapon aside from Puka Nacua and that’s Adams.

L.A.’s tight ends and young receivers are not match for Adams’s value inside the 10-yard line and red zone.

Without Adams, the Rams would next face the Atlanta Falcons on Monday Night Football, which McVay himself all but assured would be sans Adams, a team highly motivated to get a win for Raheem Morris against his former team. The Arizona Cardinals should not be as competitive, but if the Rams know that a win would guarantee their chance to win the NFC West, how much more likely is it that McVay would try to get as many starters available for that game as possible?

The Rams took some risk by signing the second-oldest starting receiver on this side of Keenan Allen. That gamble has paid off near the end of a scoring drive, but has proved why its a risk near the end of a playoff season.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...63/rams-davante-adams-injury-update-hamstring

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Lions reach 5-year decision mark on Jared Goff

The Los Angeles Rams spent 5 seasons and one massive contract on Jared Goff before deciding that it was in the franchise’s best interest to trade him for an upgrade, which ended up netting L.A. the rights to Matthew Stafford en route to a Super Bowl. Now 5 years and one massive contract into his Detroit Lions career, will Goff be traded for an upgrade again?

That’s the question that many are starting to come to terms with after the Lions were eliminated from the playoffs on Thursday in an embarrassing loss to the Minnesota Vikings that included five turnovers by Goff.

No matter how talented your team is you’re never winning a Superbowl with Jared Goff

— Coop (@_BentleyCoop) December 21, 2025

Through five seasons on the Rams, Goff had a record of 42-27 as the starter, although he was 42-20 with Sean McVay. In the playoffs, Goff went 2-3 and had a passer rating of 79.9, which was significantly lower than his 91.5 in the regular seasons.

Through five seasons on the Lions, Goff has a record of 47-33-1 as the starter, which isn’t much different than the success he had in L.A.. But that number was even better when Ben Johnson became the full-time play caller in 2022, and especially so as the Lions went 27-7 from 2023-2024.

However, the Lions are just 2-2 in the playoffs with Goff and they won’t get a win in 2025.

Without Johnson, without as good of an offensive line, the Lions are just 8-8 this season.

Although Jared Goff’s statistics are phenomenal in the past few years — 129 touchdowns, 38 interceptions, 103.7 passer rating since 2022 — the Detroit Lions really aren’t more successful because of him. More likely, the Lions are a well-oiled machine on offense with many talented pieces and Goff doesn’t screw that up when those pieces are gelling.

Unfortunately for Detroit right now they aren’t gelling and Goff doesn’t have the skillset as an immobile quarterback with almost no threat as a deep passer to elevate players around him when everything breaks down.

Jared Goff makes statues look mobile pic.twitter.com/DwtZPliWbJ

— Steven Patton (@PattonAnalytics) December 26, 2025

For example, Goff only has the 17th-most deep passing attempts (36) this season and on those passes he has a passer rating of 87.6, which also ranks 17th.

The Rams spent two first round picks to get Stafford, who leads the NFL with 9 TD/0 INT and a passer rating of 132 on those same throws. L.A. traded Goff for Stafford so that Sean McVay could have a quarterback able to make the difficult throws, not just one who doesn’t make too many mistakes. After all, the Rams weren’t going to have Andrew Whitworth, Cooper Kupp, Robert Woods, and Todd Gurley forever. It was easier to make sure that if all of those pieces left, at least the quarterback could still be a star.

That’s what the Rams have managed to survive from 2023-2025 as the supporting pieces around Stafford have changed.

The Rams are 30-16 over the past three seasons when Stafford starts, which is actually not as good as Detroit’s record (35-15) in that time with Goff. However, the Rams are 5-2 in the playoffs with Stafford (more wins than Goff’s 4-5 career postseason record) and they’ll be going to the postseason for the third season in a row.

The Lions haven’t been to the playoffs three seasons in a row since 1993-1995.

The Lions are following the Rams' Jared Goff plan to a tee so far:
-Acquire Goff in a trade
-Surround him with talent/good coaching
-Go deep in the playoffs
-Pay him a lot of money
-Realize he's holding you back

— TurfShowTimes (@TurfShowTimes) September 16, 2024

Now comes the time for the Lions to decide if the team is so historically talented that they can do something that no team has ever done before: Help Jared Goff win more than two playoff games in the same postseason.

Or if it’s time for Brad Holmes, the same GM who left the Rams for the Lions and has seen what happened when L.A. traded for an upgrade, to do the same thing for Detroit.

With Joe Burrow dangling out there as a potential blockbuster option on the market, would the Detroit Lions be willing to trade Goff and two or three first round picks for a better quarterback? Or do they still believe that all Goff needs is three or four or five more Pro Bowl quality players around him?

He wasn’t able to get the job done on the Rams in five years. He hasn’t been able to get the job done on the Lions for five years. How many more years is another franchise willing to bet on Jared Goff?

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/132396/rams-jared-goff-lions-trade-rumors

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

This rookie must play better over final two games

Davante Adams is unlikely to play over the final two weeks of the regular season for the Los Angeles Rams. It makes perfect sense that the Rams would want to keep their prized veteran healthy into the playoffs.

But the Rams still have much to gain in terms of seeding if they can notch wins over the Falcons and Cardinals. In order to do so, they’ll need more output from rookie wide receiver Konata Mumpfield.

Mumpfield’s first game starting in place of Adams left a lot to be desired. The team did much to hype up the rookie ahead of an important contest against the Seattle Seahawks, saying Mumpfield was Adams’ apprentice and ready for a bigger opportunity. These were massive shoes to fill for a seventh-round rookie.

Davante Adams had some high praise for Rams rookie WR Konata Mumpfield after his first career TD: pic.twitter.com/bujGxGN1IJ

— Adam Grosbard (@AdamGrosbard) October 19, 2025

How did Mumpfield perform vs Seattle?​

We’ve watched Adams catch less than 50% of his targets often this season. Mumpfield also fell below this threshold in Seattle, catching just three of eight targets for 40 yards. The rookie was second in targets on the Rams offense. Puka Nacua led the team with 16. On contested catch opportunities, Mumpfield hauled in only one of three targets. All three of his grabs moved the chains with first downs.

Matthew Stafford had a passer rating of 54.2 when throwing the ball in Mumpfield’s direction. On the season, Stafford enjoyed a passer rating of 112.6 when targeting Adams. This might be the most telling stat in the drop off from Adams to Mumpfield.

.@RamsNFL rookie Konata Mumpfield scores in London and hits the siuuuuuuuu

LARvsJAX on @nflnetwork
Also streaming on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/IrwVgPihn4

— NFL (@NFL) October 19, 2025

One area where Mumpfield has an advantage​

We aren’t watching the same Davante Adams from years’ past. He is very productive in the red zone, though his skills between the 20-yard lines have diminished. In just one game as a starter, Mumpfield flashed a skill that has been missing from LA’s offense with Adams in the fold: run after the catch ability.

Adams averaged just 2.0 yards per reception after the catch in 2025. This is by far the lowest output of his career. He lowest season total before this year was 3.1 yards per catch, which is still a full yard higher than his mark for this year.

In Mumpfield’s first start, he doubled Adams’ run after the catch production at 4.3 yards. 13 of his 40 yards came after the catch point.

While Mumpfield is unlikely to produce similar to Adams in the red zone (who can?), the Rams still may gain efficiency between the 20-yard lines. Mumpfield can introduce a run after the catch element that has mostly been missing from the Rams offense outside of Puka Nacua.

Can that help the Rams get the job done over the next two weeks against the Falcons and Cardinals?

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/132412/rams-konata-mumpfield-davante-adams

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams rule out starter, list Adams as Doubtful

The Los Angeles Rams will have to play without starting right guard Kevin Dotson against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday and they are expected to be without Davante Adams for the second game in a row. The Rams could be without two starting offensive linemen against Atlanta, as A.J. Jackson is listed as questionable, as well as defensive lineman Braden Fiske. Sean McVay indicated that D.J. Humphries would start at left tackle if Jackson can’t go. That would mean that the Rams have three offensive linemen on Monday who didn’t open the season as starters: Humphries, Dedich, and Warren McClendon at right tackle.

In addition, the Rams ruled out cornerback Josh Wallace, but Roger McCreary is expected to be added back to the 53-man roster in time to play against the Falcons.

McCreary, a midseason trade acquisition, has been out since Week 12.

WR Davante Adams (hamstring) is doubtful to play against the Falcons. RG Kevin Dotson (ankle) and CB Josh Wallace (ankle) have been ruled out, Sean McVay said.

— Sarah Barshop (@sarahbarshop) December 27, 2025

Rumors have circulated this week that the Rams have no plans of bringing back Davante Adams before the playoffs. Players listed as “doubtful” are typically about 95% unlikely to play, so expecting Adams to face the Falcons is wishful thinking. That means more opportunities for the likes of Terrance Ferguson, Konata Mumpfield, and others.

The Rams will turn to Justin Dedich at right guard again. Dedich played 77% of the snaps in last week’s loss to the Seahawks after Dotson went down with a leg injury. Seattle edge rusher Derick Hall was suspended by the NFL for one game for what the league called an intentional step on Dotson’s leg.

Dedich was penalized for illegal man downfield on a play that negated a would-be touchdown for the Rams.

McCreary may not be an upgrade from Wallace, but he may also not be a significant downgrade either. The Rams must beat the Falcons to keep hope alive for an NFC West title (and to improve the first round pick going from Atlanta to L.A.) but a focus on an already-secured playoff spot may be more incentive to keep Adams on the sidelines until he’s 100%.

The Rams are surely being hit hard with injuries at the end of the season, they just hope to be fully back by the time the playoffs begin.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...2425/rams-injury-report-davante-adams-falcons

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams vs Falcons: How to watch on TV, stream or listen on radio

In his 10th season as Rams Head Coach, Sean McVay boasts a 102-60 record. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)

After a tough loss that precipitated a drop from the NFC #1 seed to #6, the Los Angeles Rams will try to re-group on Monday December 29 in a matchup with the Atlanta Falcons. The kickoff from Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia is set 5:15 p.m. PST.

The 11-4 Rams are not locked into the second Wildcard playoff position, but will need win out their final two games and receive some help from other teams against the 12-3 Seattle Seahawks and 11-4 San Francisco 49ers. After the Monday Night Football game with the 6-9 Falcons, L.A. closes out the regular season at the Arizona Cardinals. Seattle draws the 8-7 Carolina Panthers this weekend and finishes on the ‘Niners home turf. Frisco hosts the 11-4 Chicago Bears this Sunday before the final game clash with the Seahawks.

As well as for the standings and playoff race, a Rams victory would also improve the Falcons Round 1 position in the 2026 NFL Draft. Atlanta shipped that selection to L.A. in last year’s draft. Currently projected to be #12, if Atlanta losses their final two games, that position could realistically move into the Top 10. The Rams will have two picks int Round 1.

The Rams and Falcons have been meeting since Atlanta entered the NFL as an expansion team in 1966 and hold a 49-30-2 advantage. In the three meetings since Sean McVay took the Rams reins in 2017 season, L.A. holds a narrow 2-1 record. This Monday night will mark the first Rams/Falcons tilt with former L.A. defensive coordinator Raheem Morris at the helm for Atlanta.

Here’s how to follow the game!

WATCH ON TV LIVE​

TV Coverage: Nationally on ESPN

Play-By-Play: Joe Buck

Color Analyst: Troy Aikman

Sideline Reporter: Lisa Salters

STREAMING​

A live stream will be available on the following platforms if the game is available on TV in the local market:

• Rams official mobile app
• therams.com

Also, but not limited to: NFL+, NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube, Peacock, Paramount+, and many others.

LISTEN ON RADIO​

Local Radio coverage: ESPN LA 710 AM

• Play-by-Play: JB Long
• Color Analyst: Maurice Jones-Drew
• Sideline reporter: D’Marco Farr

ESPNLA’s affiliate radio stations

Domestic Markets:

• KMET/1490 AM & 98.1 FM – Banning, CA
• KFIG/790 AM – Fresno, CA
• KAVL/610 AM & 106.7 FM – Lancaster, CA
• KRHQ/102.3 FM – Palm Springs, CA
• KTIE/590 AM – Riverside, CA
• KGB/760 AM – San Diego, CA
• KXTK/1280 AM & 101.7 FM – San Luis Obispo, CA
• KSMA/1240 AM & 99.5 FM – Santa Maria, CA
• KSHP/1400 AM & 107.1 – Las Vegas, NV
• KVLI/1140 AM & 103.7 FM – Bakersfield,
• CAKVTA/1590 AM – Oxnard/Ventura,
• CAKTMS/990 AM – Santa Barbara, CA
• KIXW/960 AM – Victorville
• CAKXO/107.5 FM – El Centro, CA
• KOVO/960 AM – Provo, UT
• KIKI/990 AM – Honolulu, Hi

International Markets:

• LiSTNR App – Australia
• W Radio – Mexico

Spanish Radio coverage: Tu Liga Radio 1330 AM

• Play-by-Play: Troy Santiago
• Color Analyst: Ricardo Lopez

Tu Liga Radio’s affiliate radio stations:

• KTMZ/1220 AM – Pomona, CA
• KCAL/1410 AM – San Bernardino and Riverside, CA
• KOXR 910 AM – Oxnard and Ventura, CA

SOCIAL MEDIA COVERAGE​

Instagram: @rams

Facebook: /rams

X (formerly known as Twitter): @RamsNFL

TikTok: @rams

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...-how-to-watch-on-tv-stream-or-listen-on-radio

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams eliminated from NFC West contention

With the San Francisco 49ers beating the Chicago Bears on Sunday Night Football, the Los Angeles Rams have officially been eliminated from contention for winning the NFC West division. The Rams will either be the 5-seed or the 6-seed, and historically those kind of differences have meant little or nothing to head coach Sean McVay. Without anything else on the line, should McVay start resting starters like Matthew Stafford and Puka Nacua as early as Monday night against the Atlanta Falcons?

That’s a question that will linger on the Rams until Monday night, but the consequences of playing starters and one of them being injured is something that could haunt McVay if he doesn’t play the safe route. McVay almost always chooses the safe route with starters.

If 49ers and Seahawks both win this weekend, Rams can’t win division. Curious what McVay would do Week 18 vs Arizona. He historically has usually rested his starters without regard for basic seeding differences but a win means at NFC South winner instead of likely at Philly.

— Stuckey (@Stuckey2) December 26, 2025

If the Rams beat the Falcons on Monday and then the Arizona Cardinals next Sunday, it guarantees that L.A. will be the 5-seed and face the winner of the NFC South. That will be determined by who wins the Bucs-Panthers game next Saturday, unless the Falcons win their remaining two games, then Carolina is the division winner.

Of course, if the Rams lose to the Falcons, it opens them up for the six-seed.

If the Rams lose to the Falcons and beat the Cardinals, plus the 49ers beat the Seahawks, then L.A. slips to the six-seed. That puts the Rams on the road and instead of facing the winner of the NFC South, they will face either the Eagles or the Bears; most likely the Eagles.

Is it worth it to Sean McVay to risk the health of his starters to try and guarantee a wild card game in Tampa Bay or Carolina rather than having to go to Philadelphia or Chicago?

We will know by Monday night.

The Seahawks and 49ers face off for the NFC West title and number one seed on Saturday night.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...rams-playoff-picture-wild-card-scenarios-odds

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Did Rams losing NFC West also lose Matthew Stafford MVP?

Outside of the NFC West title race and the battle for the NFC’s No. 1 seed, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford has been in the MVP conversation throughout the season. For much of the year, Stafford has led that discussion, but New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye hasn’t been far behind and has been a primary contender in that race.

However, following a blown 16-point lead against the Seahawks and the results from Week 17, the Rams have been eliminated from the NFC West race and the NFC’s No. 1 seed. The only ‘race’ remaining is Stafford’s race for MVP. While those in the Rams fanbase may believe that Stafford is a clear front-runner, it is much closer than some would like to think.

As mentioned, the race for MVP likely comes down to Stafford or Maye. While Josh Allen entered the conversation for a bit, Stafford is -225 to win MVP and Maye is +180. Way behind both is Allen at +10000. Maye leads the NFL in EPA per dropback, passer rating, and yards per attempt.

MVP may be an individual award, but team success certainly plays a role in that conversation. For the first time since 2017, the Patriots won 13 games under Maye and also won the AFC East. With a win and Broncos loss in Week 18, Maye will lead the Patriots to the AFC’s No. 1 seed. However, the big key there is that Maye led his team to a division title.

Contrarily, the Rams cannot win the NFC West. That looms large in any MVP discussion. Since 2000, there have been just four instances of the MVP award being given to a player who did not win their division. Those were Adrian Peterson in 2012, Peyton Manning in 2008, Steve McNair in 2003, and Marshall Faulk in 2000. Manning in 2008 was also the last quarterback to win and not be the No. 1 or No. 2 seed in the conference.

The 2008 Colts went 12-4, losing the division to the 13-3 Tennessee Titans. Among teams with a winning record, Manning clearly had the better numbers. Manning was the only quarterback in 2008 to throw for 4,000 yards and 25 touchdowns to have a winning record. Drew Brees threw for 5,000 yards, but the New Orleans Saints went 8-8 and finished last in the NFC South.

In 2008, Tom Brady tore his ACL and the biggest competition for Manning was Chad Pennington and Phillip Rivers. Pennington led the Dolphins to an 11-5 record and AFC South title, but threw just 19 touchdowns. Rivers had 4,000 yards and 34 touchdowns, but the Chargers won the AFC West title at just 8-8.

The competition for Stafford is much better this year. Even if Maye is Stafford’s biggest competition, he still has over 4,200 yards and 30 touchdowns with fewer than 10 interceptions. He’s not having a statistically bad year by any means and he has the Patriots at 13-3.

It’s also hard to say that Stafford didn’t have opportunities to win the division. Stafford had the Rams in position to tie the Carolina Panthers at the end of regulation and fumbled. In the fourth quarter against the Seahawks, the offense went three-and-out three times. Stafford had the ball at midfield with a minute left and threw three consecutive incomplete passes. How much sympathy will voters have for Stafford putting the Rams in position to win against the Eagles, 49ers, and Seahawks, but his team failing him? Stafford did throw a potential game-winning touchdown in overtime and left the field with the lead before ultimately losing.

For much of his career, Stafford has missed out on individual awards because of the lack of team success. Since joining the Rams, that hasn’t been a problem as Stafford has made two Pro Bowls, won a Super Bowl, and made the playoffs four times. However, this is the first time that the Rams may have somewhat failed Stafford. If Stafford doesn’t win MVP, it will be because special teams allowed two blocked game-winning field goals against the Eagles, Kyren Williams fumbled against the 49ers, and the defense allowed a touchdown drive and two-point conversion against the Seahawks in overtime.

Stafford still needs to just focus on his game over the final two weeks. With three touchdown passes against the Falcons, Stafford can tie Tom Brady for the second-most touchdown passes in a single season by a QB age 37-or-older in NFL history. With three touchdowns and a passer rating of 110-or-higher, Stafford can become just the fourth quarterback to accomplish that four or more times in a single season.

At the end of the day, Stafford likely doesn’t care about the MVP as much as he does about simply winning. It’s an individual award and a resume builder, but Stafford can also do that by winning a second Super Bowl. However, by not winning the NFC West, the Rams may have cost Stafford his best shot at the prestigious award.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-analysis/132477/did-rams-cost-matthew-stafford-mvp

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Winners & Losers: Matthew’s Monday meltdown

Winning the NFC West was out of reach for the Los Angeles Rams coming into Monday Night Football on the road against the Atlanta Falcons. They looked like a team that did not have much to play for. The Rams were upset 24-27 by Atlanta. It was a shocking result that currently puts LA in the sixth seed in the NFC playoff picture.

We can look forward to the regular season finale in time. For now, let’s review the individual contributions that led to this surprising result in primetime.

Winners​

Jared Verse & Special teams​

I’ll start off by saying this wasn’t a defensive outing that Jared Verse will be proud of. He missed several tackles and did not do his part to slow down Bijan Robinson and the Atlanta rushing attack.

However, his blocked field goal and return for a touchdown completely flipped the momentum and gave the Rams life in a game they really didn’t have any business contending in. According to NextGen stats, Verse eclipsed 20 miles per hour on his run back. For comparison, Kyren Williams clocked in at 17 MPH during a long catch and run in the second half. Verse’s listed weight is 65 pounds heavier.

Let’s also give kudos to the Rams’ new special teams coordinator, Ben Kotwica. I was pessimistic that a late-season change from Chase Blackburn would actually make a difference. At this point we only have a single game to go off of, and for one of the first times all season special teams was a strength rather than a weakness. We will see how long this lasts. This issue truly may not get fixed until the offseason, and it’s a problem that has haunted Sean McVay’s tenure.

Jared Verse is a freak of nature lmfao pic.twitter.com/1ZpEazTZua

— Clay Fink (@clay_fink) December 30, 2025

Terrance Ferguson, TE​

When the ball is thrown in Terrance Ferguson’s direction, good things happen. The rookie hauled in two long catches that went for 27 yards a piece. He also scored third touchdown of the season.

Ferguson has seemingly become the preferred red zone option in Davante Adams’ absence, and his experience over this stretch should only pay dividends if/when Adams returns for the postseason. He’s had multiple scores reversed or called back by penalty in recent weeks. The arrow is clearly pointing up.

Matthew Stafford to Terrance Ferguson for the TD!

(via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/r4dom3x4ii

— ESPN (@espn) December 30, 2025

Emmanuel Forbes, CB​

I wasn’t sure if the Rams corners could hang with a large Falcons receiving corps. This was not the matchup that made the difference in this game. LA held Drake London to only a single reception for four yards. David Sills was the team’s leading receiver at just 37 yards.

Forbes was targeted often and allowed a few catches for longer yardage; however, he forced another pass breakup (for his fourth-straight game) and the ball felt incomplete in his direction more often than it was completed. Forbes brought a rare physicality that we don’t often see from the secondary.

The only corners under contract for the Rams into 2026 are Forbes, Josh Wallace, and Darious Williams. Williams is not likely to be back. Forbes has earned a shot to stick around next year, although he should compete for a starting role.

Emmanuel Forbes has recorded a pass defended in four consecutive games, tied for the fourth-longest active streak in the NFL. He's had two 4-game streaks with a pass defended during the 2025 season. pic.twitter.com/b2oSsBJMhU

— Los Angeles Rams PR (@TheLARamsPR) December 30, 2025

Losers​

DJ Humphries, LT​

Humphries will land on Puka Nacua’s “naughty” list. The veteran was called for penalties that negated two scores by the star receiver, though he still found the end zone on Monday night.

The decline from Alaric Jackson to Humphries was stark and evident from the jump. Humphries was signed this offseason while Jackson’s status was uncertain surrounding his blood clotting issue. We should appreciate the fact that Jackson was healthy for most of this season and this was our first extended look at Humphries.

Matthew Stafford, QB​

Stop me if you’ve heard this before:

The Rams lost a game they shouldn’t have to an NFC South opponent and Matthew Stafford turned the ball over three times, including a pick-six. These are common threads between the Rams’ losses to the Carolina Panthers and Falcons. Stafford’s Monday meltdown likely cost him the MVP race and LA’s shot at the fifth seed.

The Rams will always be dangerous with Stafford at the helm; however, the veteran’s propensity to run hot and cold could ultimately be the team’s undoing. This explains both how they’ve suffered shocking losses (Eagles and Seahawks) and almost completed improbable comebacks themselves (49ers and Falcons).

What the Rams need from Stafford is consistency. Can he go on a hot steak like he did enroute to a Super Bowl victory in 2021?

With that pick six, Matt Stafford ties Brett Favre for the most pick sixes in NFL history. pic.twitter.com/SSiLbhD7vh

— Stats (@NFLSTATISTIC) December 30, 2025

Ahkello Witherspoon, CB​

The Rams made a change at corner ahead of this game. Ahkello Witherspoon was active for the first time in weeks while Darious Williams was a healthy scratch. Witherspoon did not do much to reward the team’s confidence in him. He often looked unwilling to tackle, which was a stark comparison to Forbes on the other side of the field.

Quentin Lake’s return for the playoffs would ideally send Witherspoon to the bench. This would allow the team to play Cobie Durant outside full-time as he wouldn’t need to split reps in the slot. Josh Wallace will have a role inside if/when he returns to health as well.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...32544/winners-losers-matthews-monday-meltdown

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Losing MVP might be best case for Matthew Stafford

Matthew Stafford had yet another three-turnover performance on Monday night, and it likely cost him the MVP. However, Stafford missing out on MVP honors might be the best-case scenario for him and the Los Angeles Rams in postseason play.

Winning MVP has rarely translated to playoff success in the last decade. As evidenced by the following chart, you might reach the Super Bowl, but you aren’t guaranteed a Super Bowl title:

Year	Winner	Playoff Result
2015	Cam Newton	Lost Super Bowl (24-10 to Broncos)
2016	Matt Ryan	Lost Super Bowl (34-28 to Patriots)
2017	Tom Brady	Lost Super Bowl (41-33 to Eagles)
2018	Patrick Mahomes	Lost AFC Championship (37-31 to Patriots)
2019	Lamar Jackson	Lost AFC Divisional (28-12 to Titans)
2020	Aaron Rodgers	Lost NFC Championship (31-26 to Buccaneers)
2021	Aaron Rodgers	Lost NFC Divisional (13-10 to 49ers)
2022	Patrick Mahomes	Won Super Bowl (38-35 over Eagles)
2023	Lamar Jackson	Lost AFC Championship (17-10 to Chiefs)
2024	Josh Allen	Lost AFC Championship (32-29 to Chiefs)

Well, okay, I should’ve said that you aren’t guaranteed a Super Bowl title, UNLESS you’re Patrick Mahomes. The Chiefs star is the lone MVP winner of the last decade to hoist the Lombardi Trophy. That’s it.

Prior to Mahomes becoming the first player to win MVP honors and a ring in the same season, Rams legend Kurt Warner was the last to achieve that feat.

Stafford picked the worst time to have his first three-interception game since 2022 in the MNF loss to Atlanta. It’s fair to wonder if the pressure of being perfect to claim the honor had finally gotten to Stafford, though I’m sure he’d never admit it.

The kiss of death regarding his MVP chances likely came in that three-turnover performance to the Panthers in Week 13. Following that game, it felt as though the national media had placed Stafford under a microscope like never before. Players are typically good at avoiding the noise — except if they’re DeKaylin Metcalf — but even the most seasoned guys fall victim to it.

No matter the reason, Stafford should be fortunate if he does miss out on MVP. It would be disappointing for Rams fans if he weren’t rewarded for his efforts this season in some form, yet winning those honors is not all that it’s cut out to be.

So enjoy the MVP curse Drake Maye, as you’re now the odds-on favorite at FanDuel Sportsbook!

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/132585/matthew-stafford-mvp-playoff-success-rams

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Terrance Ferguson is one of a kind

Los Angeles Rams rookie Terrance Ferguson is one of the most unique and promising players in all the NFL. On the surface this could easily come across as hyperbole for someone with only 11 catches for less than 250 yards. However, you can already see the breadcrumbs of how Ferguson can become a special player upon a deeper dive.

Sean McVay’s unique deployment of the rookie​

Of all NFL tight ends this season, Ferguson leads the field in average depth of target (aDOT) at 18.3 yards. The next closest player with at least 10 targets is Darren Waller of the Miami Dolphins with an aDOT of 11.9. A difference of nearly six and a half yards is very significant—79 TE’s have an aDOT below this mark alone in 2025.

Ferguson is aligning in the slot on 46.2% of his passing snaps, out wide 23.7%, and in-line 28.5%. He also is asked to stay in to block, and this is something he does surprisingly well. Ferguson has a 74.0 pass blocking grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF), which ranks 23rd out of 131 active tight ends.

In short, defenses must track where Ferguson is lining up on the field because he moves around often. Sean McVay is striving for vertical matchups against linebackers and safeties. It’s a recipe that has worked well for Los Angeles. Ferguson has the most 25-yard catches (five) by a Rams rookie tight end in the last 35 years.

And there is still room for Ferguson to grow.

While McVay has surprised the NFL with a heavy deployment of 13 personnel (1 RB, 3 TE’s), Colby Parkinson has been the lone TE in recent weeks when the Rams pivot back to 11 personnel (1 RB, 1 TE). The time has probably come for Ferguson to begin eating into these snaps and expanding his role on the offense.

I really hope the Rams start to use Terrance Ferguson as the focal TE in their offense next season.

Had a really strong finish to the year as a receiver and has been excelling as a blocker too.

Has the potential to be a great do-it-all TE

pic.twitter.com/KB05bRdJsA

— Matt FF Dynasty (@MattFFDynasty) December 30, 2025

Ferguson is one of a kind​

If simply leading the NFL in aDOT isn’t impressive already, Ferguson also leads all TE’s on passes more than 20+ yards down the field with 13. The rookie enjoys a PFF receiving grade of 98.7 on such plays, which ranks fifth. The four players in front of him all have grades of 99.9: George Kittle, AJ Barner, Oronde Gadsden, and Colston Loveland.

There are only two TE’s with more than 10 targets of more than 20+ yards, and it’s good company to be in: Kyle Pitts and Trey McBride. Ferguson has two touchdowns on such plays and is tied for the league lead with Pat Freiermuth, Kittle, Loveland, and fellow rookie Harold Fannin.

Here's what we had to say about Colby Parkinson before the game yesterday. Parkinson lined up at WR for 17.7% of his snaps while Terrance Ferguson lined up at WR for 42.4%.

Bodes well for Ferguson's future in your dynasty leagues. pic.twitter.com/j7cwyYkAqh

— Andrew Cooper (@CoopAFiasco) December 19, 2025

McVay’s next evolution​

One of the most appealing parts of Ferguson’s draft profile was his run after the catch ability. We watched the rookie demonstrate such talents during the preseason; however, we haven’t seen this yet come to fruition over the regular season. He’s certainly capable but needs more opportunities on screens and short/intermediate throws in order to take his game to the next level.

Taking over for Parkinson when the Rams are in 11 personnel is a start. He wouldn’t need to be the designated deep threat like he is when LA is in heavier personnel. McVay probably sees Parkinson as the better option to assist in run blocking; however, this simply doesn’t hold up according to PFF grades. Ferguson is 11th among TE’s in run blocking and Parkinson ranks 31st. The truth is both (or either) seem adequate. Ferguson’s prowess as a receiver and a more formidable dual threat should give him the upper hand moving forward.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/132613/rams-terrance-ferguson-anytime-td-2026

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Have Rams lost the confidence of fans?

The Los Angeles Rams were one quarter away from essentially putting the Seahawks away and locking up the NFC West. Five quarters and one overtime later, the Rams are one loss or one Seahawks win away from being the six-seed. The best the Rams can do is the five-seed. What a whirlwind 10 days its been to drop from the 1 to a wild card so dramatically; are Rams fans still as confident in the team today as they were two weeks ago?

Sean McVay has to answer for why the Rams find themselves in a funk every single season since Matthew Stafford arrived. In 2021, the team rebounded from an UGLY three-game losing streak in the middle of the year.

But there haven’t been any rebounds lately.

In 2022, the team went 5-12. In 2023, the Rams started 3-6. In 2024, the Rams started 1-4. And in 2025, the Rams have lost three of their last five.

Can McVay and Stafford put together a complete season together? Can they rebound this time to get back to the Super Bowl?

How confident are you in the Los Angeles Rams this season and beyond?

Fans: Answer the survey below! We’ll post the results to find out how much confidence has slipped after L.A.‘s 27-24 loss to the Falcons on Monday. (We didn’t get to post the results after the Seahawks game because of XMas, so the drop from the last time you saw the results could be quite huge.)

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Rams fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...-sean-mcvay-fan-confidence-playoffs-wild-card