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[Los Angeles Rams]

How would you rank Sean McVay’s playoff wins?

With the 20-17 win over the Chicago Bears in the NFC Divisional Round, Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay earned his 10th playoff win of his career. It moved him into a tie for 14th all-time with coaches like Bill Walsh and George Seifert. What’s unique about McVay’s playoff record is that all 10 wins have also come against 10 different opponents. With McVay set to play his first postseason opponent for a second time, I thought it would be fun to rank each of McVay’s playoff wins.

1. 2021 Super Bowl vs. Bengals​

It doesn’t get much better than the Super Bowl. This was the first Super Bowl win for the Rams since the Greatest Show on Turf during the 1999 season. It was also their first Super Bowl ever in Los Angeles and it came in dramatic fashion. The Rams trailed 20-16 late in the fourth quarter and then Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp took over. Stafford found Kupp on a no-look pass and then finished the drive with a touchdown in the corner of the end zone. Of course, Aaron Donald’s role can’t be overlooked as well. Donald’s pressure on Joe Burrow on fourth down to end the game will go down in history.

Aaron Donald’s play to seal the Super Bowl and his celebration after was so legendary pic.twitter.com/ErgdtuR0y0

— Bussin' With The Boys (@BussinWTB) March 15, 2024

2. 2021 NFCCG vs. 49ers​

An argument can be made that this has been the best postseason win of the McVay era. Heading into this game, the Rams had lost six straight games to the 49ers. They had just lost in Week 18 in overtime after holding a big lead. The Rams trailed, 17-7, heading into the fourth quarter and then Stafford and the defense took over. McVay finally got the Kyle Shanahan monkey off his back and when an Aaron Donald pressure turned into an interception that clinched the game, the Rams sent the 49ers back to Santa Clara.

Championship Sunday one year ago, Travin Howard sent the Rams to the Super Bowl! pic.twitter.com/UFkEaMFwUN

— Blaine Grisak (@bgrisakTST) January 29, 2023

3. 2018 NFCCG @ Saints​

This was the first NFC Championship game for McVay as the Rams took on the experienced New Orleans Saints. The Rams trailed 13-0 after the first quarter and had their backs against the wall late in the game. Jared Goff led the Rams down the field to tie the game and then a John Johnson III interception in overtime put the offense in position to win the game. With a 57-yard field goal, Greg Zuerlein broke the hearts of Saints fans, Drew Brees, and Sean Payton. The Rams would go on to lose the Super Bowl to the New England Patriots.

4. 2025 NFC Divisional @ Bears​

The win against the Bears wasn’t McVay’s best coached game by any means, but from a pure entertainment standpoint, it’s hard not to put this one at four. There may be some recency bias, but this was an exciting win. The Rams heard all week about how they couldn’t win in the cold at Soldier Field. McVay was 0-2 at Soldier Field heading into this game. After Caleb Williams hit Cole Kmet on 4th-and-4 in the end zone to tie the game, it seemed like everything was against the Rams. However, Kam Curl intercepted Caleb Williams for a third time in overtime and Matthew Stafford led the offense down the field to set up Harrison Mevis for a game-winning field goal.

KAM CURL PICKS OFF WILLIAMS IN OT.

LARvsCHI on NBC
Stream on @NFLPlus + Peacock pic.twitter.com/hpVRSPWjaD

— NFL (@NFL) January 19, 2026

5. 2018 NFC Divisional vs. Cowboys​

An argument can be made that this is too high, but it’s important to remember how the Rams got to this point. Heading into this game, the Rams hadn’t won a playoff game since 2004. They had just lost to the Atlanta Falcons in the playoffs the year before. There were times between 2005 and 2016 that a playoff appearance, let alone a playoff win, didn’t seem possible. For the Rams to win this game in the fashion that they did after years of organizational ineptitude is what makes this one special. This was the beginning of a new Rams team.

Up late at night thinking about how CJ Anderson randomly came out of nowhere and single handily ruined the Cowboys Super Bowl chances back in the 2019 Divisional Round pic.twitter.com/8kDKYxJsg7

— FergSZN (@FergSZN) January 19, 2024

6. 2021 NFC Divisional @ Buccaneers​

I’d be ok with moving this one ahead of the Cowboys because of the entertainment value. The Rams led early in this game before Tom Brady and the Buccaneers tied the game late in the fourth quarter. Stafford hit Kupp on the infamous ‘for the love of the game’ route and Matt Gay sent the Rams to the NFC Championship. It wasn’t a complete game from the Rams, but they did enough and it was another example of why the Rams traded for Stafford.

“For the Love of the game”

On this Sunday last year, Cooper Kupp showed why he’s one of the best WRs in the NFL and helped send the Rams to the NFC Championship Game!

pic.twitter.com/K2JlUCdWAD

— Blaine Grisak (@bgrisakTST) January 22, 2023

7. 2024 NFC Wild Card vs. Vikings​

This is another one that could get moved up because of everything that happened prior to this game. The Rams were meant to host the Minnesota Vikings in the Wild Card round of the playoffs. However, because of the California fires, this game got moved to State Farm Stadium in Arizona. The Rams defense sacked Sam Darnold nine times to win during an emotional week.

JARED VERSE SCOOP & SCORE OFF THE DARNOLD FUMBLE

Hit the Superman dive into the end zone #MINvsLAR | ABC, ESPN, ESPN+ pic.twitter.com/bH07aTqmjW

— ESPN (@espn) January 14, 2025

8. 2020 NFC Wild Card @ Seahawks​

Anybody else enjoy John Wolford’s lone playoff win? This was effectively the end for Jared Goff. McVay started Wolford in the playoff game against the Seahawks only for Wolford to get hurt on the second possession of the game. Goff came in and completed a few big passes, but this was all about Cam Akers rushing for 131 yards and Darious Williams intercepting Russell Wilson and taking it the other way for a touchdown. It’s always sweet beating a division rival in the playoffs.

9. 2025 NFC Wild Card @ Panthers​

This was a big playoff win in the sense that it was another game-winning drive from Matthew Stafford in the fourth quarter. However, it should never have gotten to that point against an 8-9 Panthers team. The touchdown pass to Colby Parkinson will always be memorable, but outside of that, the Rams had bigger fish to fry than the Panthers and Bryce Young.

STAFFORD TO PARKINSON FOR THE GO-AHEAD TOUCHDOWN!

@NFLonFOX | #RamsHouse pic.twitter.com/68pX3eH7uY

— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) January 11, 2026

10. 2021 NFC Wild Card vs. Cardinals​

The Rams started their Super Bowl journey with a win over the Arizona Cardinals. After losing to the Cardinals early in the season, the Rams beat them on Monday Night Football to steal the division. On the NFL’s first Monday Night Football playoff broadcast, the Rams cruised past the Cardinals. Troy Reeder scored a defensive touchdown as the Rams got their first playoff win at SoFi Stadium.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-analysis/133756/sean-mcvay-rams-playoff-wins-ranked

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Is Matthew Stafford playing for a Hall of Fame lock?

Matthew Stafford hasn’t been playing his best football recently, but he’s one win away from becoming the 25th starting quarterback in NFL history to reach a second Super Bowl. Would redeeming the Rams’ loss to the Seahawks a month ago and reaching the Super Bowl put any debate to rest on Stafford’s place in the Hall of Fame?

Just a year ago, Jalen Hurts became the 24th QB to reach his second career Super Bowl with the last two being Patrick Mahomes in 2020 and Russell Wilson in 2014. Now Stafford could reach his second Super Bowl in less than 5 years.

The probable MVP, Stafford had a career-high 46 touchdown passes in 2025.

Mahomes is the last regular season MVP to win the Super Bowl (2022) and the most recent before him was Kurt Warner in 1999. Anyone who has done that has made the Hall of Fame (Warner, Emmitt Smith, Bart Starr, Steve Young, Joe Montana, and Terry Bradshaw), with the exception of Mahomes, who is already a lock.

Should an MVP and a second Super Bowl guarantee Stafford as a first ballot entrant?

Bomani Jones is trying to fan the flames this week by saying that Stafford shouldn’t be allowed in the Hall of Fame at all if he fails to win the Super Bowl:

If Matthew Stafford fumbles a Super Bowl this easy… We might need to talk

"If the Rams don't win the Super Bowl, shut this Hall of Fame thing up." pic.twitter.com/yEwZUwQCHF

— The Right Time with Bomani Jones (@righttimebomani) January 19, 2026

If the Rams win the next two games, Stafford will become the 14th QB to win two Super Bowls.

The last three to do it are Mahomes, Peyton Manning, and Eli Manning.

But Stafford hasn’t been that hot recently.

Although he is still accumulating touchdowns, Stafford’s completion rate has taken a nose dive:

• Last 8 games of regular season: 62.7% completions, 6 INTs, 2 fumbles
• Playoffs: 52% completions, 1 INT, 2 fumbles

Stafford is just 44-of-84 on passes in two playoff games. That may have a lot to do with some drops, pass protection, weather conditions, and his finger. But whatever the cause may be, Stafford’s effectiveness hasn’t been as beneficial to the Rams as it was in the first nine games of 2025, when he had 67% completions, 25 TD, 2 INT and a passer rating of 114.8.

Stafford also hasn’t completed 60% of his pass attempts in any of his four career starts against a Mike Macdonald defense.

To now face the Seahawks in the NFC Championship game and the Super Bowl on the line, Stafford can put the past behind him and redeem whatever questions there are about L.A.’s passing offense as a whole in the last few games.

And if he does that, keeping a two-time Super Bowl QB with an MVP out of the Hall of Fame would be more controversial than putting Stafford in.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...7/matthew-stafford-rams-hall-of-fame-seahawks

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams can become 6th team in history to do this

The NFL has had wild card playoff teams since 1970 and expanded the wild card to three teams per conference in 2020 but despite the league’s best efforts to give more teams a chance to win the Super Bowl, very few wild cards have made it that far. If the Los Angeles Rams beat the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday to win the NFC Championship, they will join an exclusive group of teams to win three road games in the same playoffs.

Only five teams have won three road playoff games in a season and the last four won the Super Bowl:

• 2020 Tampa Bay Buccaneers
• 2010 Green Bay Packers
• 2007 New York Giants
• 2005 Pittsburgh Steelers
• 1985 New England Patriots

The Rams, who have already won road games in Carolina and Chicago, can become just the 12th wild. card team in history to reach the Super Bowl if they beat the Seahawks this weekend.

The Bucs with Tom Brady are the only wild card team to reach the Super Bowl in the past 15 years. Division winners have been dominant in the playoffs, especially in recent years, despite superficial edits by the league to make it seem like more teams have a chance to win the Super Bowl than ever. The Rams can be the team that bucks the trend and reaches the Super Bowl as a wild card team that had to go on the road in every round if they can avenge their loss in Seattle last month.

The Rams could also become the first team since the AFL-NFL merger to be an indoor team that wins a conference championship game in an outdoor stadium with the previous attempts going 0-15:

A slice of stadiumgami :

Since the AFL-NFL merger, no indoor team has ever won a Conference Championship game on the road in an outdoor stadium.
(0-15 all time).

The Rams are looking to become the first to do so on Sunday.

— QBgami (@QBgami) January 20, 2026

The Bucs went 11-5 in 2020 and won close playoff games against Washington, New Orleans, and Green Bay en route to reaching the Super Bowl and beating the Chiefs.

The Packers went 10-6 in 2010 and beat the Eagles, Falcons, and Bears in their home stadiums to reach Aaron Rodgers’ first and only Super Bowl.

The Giants went into the playoffs at 10-6 in 2007 and beat the Bucs, Cowboys, and Packers to reach the Super Bowl and upset Brady’s undefeated Patriots.

The Steelers, the only AFC team to go 3-0 on the road in the playoffs and win the Super Bowl, went 11-5 in 2005 and beat the Bengals, Colts, and Broncos to reach the Super Bowl and beat the Seahawks.

And in 1985, the Patriots beat Jets, Raiders, and Dolphins after an 11-5 season to reach the Super Bowl, where they got whomped by the legendary ‘85 Bears.

Several teams have won two road games and fallen short of in the conference championship game. Some teams win 2 road games but don’t get an opportunity to win a third. The Rams have the chance in front of them on Sunday and the opponent is someone they know well.

One more win and the Rams can make history. One more win and the Rams will be in Sean McVay’s third Super Bowl since 2018.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...3787/rams-playoff-history-road-wins-wild-card

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Is Rams-Seahawks the real Super Bowl?

Only one of the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks can earn a trip to the Super Bowl out of the NFC. Whichever team claims victory on Sunday evening is likely to become the presumed favorite over the entrant from the AFC conference—either the Denver Broncos or the New England Patriots.

As of today, these are the betting odds with Seattle enjoying the highest probability to become world champions:

• Seattle Seahawks: +145
• Los Angeles Rams: +230
• New England Patriots: +250
• Denver Broncos: 11-1

As Turf Show Times’ Blaine Grisak shared earlier this week, the upcoming clash between the Rams and Seahawks is the most competitive NFC Championship game we’ve seen in 47 years according to DVOA. These are the two best teams in the NFL by most objective measures, and it is a little unfortunate that they are set to faceoff in the league’s penultimate game.

Meanwhile the Patriots seem to be coasting through the AFC.

New England faced the least clutch quarterback in the NFL, Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers, in the opening round of the playoffs. Herbert remains winless in three postseason attempts as the other LA team fell haplessly to the Patriots 3-16.

In the divisional round the Patriots were on the receiving end of CJ Stroud’s four interceptions. The Houston Texans squeaked by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the wildcard round. It was a close contest in the fourth quarter even though two defensive touchdowns in the closing minutes created separation in the final score.

You wouldn’t mount and hang these victories on your mantle or list them on your championship resume as a Super Bowl hopeful, but that’s exactly what the Patriots’ have on paper at this point in time.

And now New England will benefit from Bo Nix’s absence in the AFC championship. Bo Nix broke his ankle in the final moments of his team’s divisional round win, and taking over in replacement will be career backup Jarrett Stidham. You couldn’t align the stars on purpose any better.

The intent of saying this isn’t to put down the Patriots. They are a good team that will probably only be better next year. Drake Maye is on track to become one of the game’s finest quarterbacks. New England overall is probably a year away from being a complete team, and they will have ample salary cap room in the coming offseason to make another run.

Don’t be surprised if the best game we see the rest of the playoffs is this weekend’s matchup between the Rams and Seahawks. These teams played down to the wire in their first two contests. The third comes with the highest stakes yet.

It could be the real Super Bowl after all.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a.../133862/rams-seahawks-playoffs-superbowl-odds

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Who’s got the advantage? Rams-Seahawks part III

It’s only fitting that the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks are playing for the NFC Championship this year. Both games were among the best in the NFL this year. Both teams are 1 and 2 in DVOA. Both teams have been considered by the media to be the best. The Rams are battle tested on the road; beating the Panthers and Bears in the wild card and divisional rounds respectively. The Seahawks enjoyed the comforts of their first round bye and then dismantled the San Francisco 49ers 41-6 at home. Now it’s time to prove who is worthy of advancing to Super Bowl LX. Let’s see who has the advantages on Conference Championship weekend…

QBs: The last time Matthew Stafford played Seattle, he went off for the tune of 457 yards and 3 touchdowns. In order for Sam Darnold to produce that kind of performance, it would have to be a regular season game. This game will define a lot about Stafford as he has the opportunity to take his team to another Super Bowl further elevating his career.

3rd and long (7+ yards) passing conversion percentage in 2025:

3. Patriots (37.8%)
5. Rams (30.9%)
11. Broncos (27.8%)
…
32. Seahawks (16.4%)

— Ian Hartitz (@Ihartitz) January 21, 2026

Advantage: Rams (moderate)

RBs: The Seahawks were dealt a significant blow when they found Monday that Zach Charbonnet will be out for the remainder of the playoffs because of a significant knee injury. That makes Kenneth Walker the workhorse back for Seattle. He had a promising game in Week 16 because of a 55 yard touchdown run but Walker has only averaged 60.4 yards/game in the regular season.

Kyren Williams might have been the sole offensive reason the Rams advanced past the divisional round. He carried the ball 21 times for 87 yards and 2 touchdowns. For a large part of the game he was averaging 4.6 – 4.9 yards/touch. He was also a factor in the passing game, catching 4 passes for 30 yards. Last but not least, his biggest play was the fumble recovery on a Matthew Stafford passing attempt. It was a huge heads up play when the Rams were still on their side of the field.

This is basically a push for me but I’ll actually go against the graph and say that because of Seattle’s defensive front, the Seattle running backs have a very slight edge.

Advantage: Seahawks (very slight)

WRs: Puka Nacua will need to show his heroics again this Sunday as Davante Adams production in between the 30s has waned. I think the Rams really need to consider Tutu Atwell being active for this game so that Nacua and Adams can work the intermediate. Jordan Whittington does not offer that elite speed. And while Xavier Smith has been helpful at times, his connection with Stafford is spotty at best.

Successful Play Rate w/ Motion | 2025 Reg. Season

1. Rams – 52.7%
6. Patriots – 46.7%
17. Broncos – 42.9%
26. Seahawks – 40.4% pic.twitter.com/RiguXt5ozn

— Inside Edge NFL (@IE_NFL) January 21, 2026

Jaxon Smith-Njigba was held without a first half catch in Week 16 so LA is capable of containing him. Cooper Kupp will be used here and there but does not have the same cutting ability that he did in his prime.

Advantage: Rams (slight)

TEs: This needs to be a big game for the tight ends as well. With four healthy bodies, the Rams need to challenge Seattle’s linebackers in the passing game. Ernest Jones is not the strongest in coverage and could be taken advantage of by Terrance Ferguson.

AJ Barner and Elijah Arroyo are safety blankets for Darnold. Barner, in particular, has been a thorn in LA’s side in the previous two matchups.

Advantage: Push

OL: The Rams returned Kevin Dotson to their starting offensive line and it paid dividends immediately in the run game. The knock on the offensive line is that they did a poor job of picking up Chicago’s blitzes, even when they had the numbers to put “a hat on a hat”.

The Seahawks starting offensive line: Cross-Zabel-Sundell-Bradford-Lucas will be called upon to protect Darnold. Cross has been in and out of the lineup with an injury so his performance in-game is worth monitoring.

Can't get much closer than this

Who are you taking in the NFC Championship, Rams or Seahawks?

LAR vs SEA: Sunday, January 25th at 6:30 PM ET on FOX pic.twitter.com/wsKdvl267c

— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) January 20, 2026

DL: Poona Ford is a dawg. His performance dictates the trajectory of the defense. Kobie Turner will be an important factor in this game when it comes to collapsing the interior of the pocket.

Every team needs a Poona Ford pic.twitter.com/DhQZTkOq0L

— Memes (@PardonMyMeme) December 19, 2025

Byron Murphy and Leonard Williams have been allowing the Seahawks defense to ball. I expect they will take away the Rams run game. Can Avila-Shelton-Dotson do a quality job in pass protection to give Stafford enough time to win this game?

Advantage: Seahawks (very slight)

EDGE: Jared Verse was actually the lowest graded defender against the Bears. I don’t expect him to be graded poorly again against the Seahawks. LA needs the talented edge rusher to make plays on each defensive series and make the correct form tackles.

Byron Young is nursing a knee injury so I believe Josiah Stewart has to play a huge role this week.

Uchenna Nwosu and Demarcus Lawrence will come off the edge for Seattle. Both are solid but unspectacular.

Advantage: Rams (slight)

ILB: Nate Landman had at least four missed tackles against the Bears. There is definitely cause for concern since his signed extension. Maybe the best way to evaluate Verse and Landman is that you would like to see them elevate their “floor”.

The Rams picked on Ernest Jones in the passing game in the last matchup, finding space behind him on intermediate routes. If Jones sits back there, LA will need to run the ball more. If he stays greedy towards the line of scrimmage, they will continue to pass.

Once again, the Rams tight ends are a matchup to watch here.

Advantage: Seahawks (very slight)

DBs: If the Rams secondary plays like they did against Chicago, LA will be in the Super Bowl. But you have to play this game. LA did make a shuffle at cornerback going into the divisional game, starting Cobie Durant, Roger McCreary, and Quentin Lake. Darious Williams rotated in. Emmanuel Forbes was originally rotating in but was injured in the first half with a shoulder injury.

I see both of these tweets and then ask myself why isnt Roger McCreary starting at this point Ramily? pic.twitter.com/bcad6OjBHT

— NOtown Dodgers (@bdez559) January 20, 2026

The Seahawks boast one of the best and deepest secondaries in the NFL led by Devon Witherspoon, Nick Emmanwori, Josh Jobe, Tariq Woolen, and Cobie Bryant, and Julian Love. If there an area to exploit, it would be Josh Jobe and Cobie Bryant.

Advantage: Seahawks (moderate)

ST: Harrison Mevis has elevated the Rams special teams unit with his consistency at place kicker. Special teams coverage and punting issues still remain a weakness for Los Angeles. The Rams will need to account for Rashid Shaheed who made his impact felt against the 49ers and in the last meeting against LA. My best guess is that Los Angeles will not even allow for him to have an impact on special teams.

Advantage: Seahawks (moderate)

Coaching: Mike Macdonald was brought to Seattle to solve the offensive gurus like Kyle Shanahan and Sean McVay. This will be a big test for Sean McVay as his playoff record against defensive coaches is spotty. I expect both coaches to have an excellent game plans. Whoever can counter the other quicker will be playing in February.

Advantage: Rams (very slight)

Will the Rams continue to be road warriors? Can the 2025 Los Angeles Rams become the next wild card team to advance & win Super Bowl LX?

Add your comments below about this week’s roster advantages.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...ms-seahawks-conference-championship-breakdown

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Never take Sean McVay for granted

Sean McVay will coach in his third NFC Championship game with the Los Angeles Rams this upcoming weekend. He has already earned two Super Bowl berths since taking over as head coach in 2017 with a victory in 2021.

From the turn of the millennium to 2016, the Rams made only a single Super Bowl (2001). This stretch included frequent losing seasons, sporadic playoff appearances, and no deep playoffs runs for the better part of 15 years. The Rams were mostly an afterthought in the NFL.

Fans who stuck through this era should have a deep appreciation for all McVay has accomplished in nine years. The still-young coach is not only cementing himself as one of the best to don the headset for his franchise but perhaps the best to ever do it in professional football. Nearly every team across the NFL has attempted to steal a piece of the Rams’ and McVay’s magic. Imitation is the greatest form of flattery.

It’s unheard of that someone who has yet to turn 40 and has less than a decade of head coaching experience could claim one of the most robust coaching trees in the sport. This tree includes:

• Matt LaFleur, Green Bay packers
• Zac Taylor, Cincinnati Bengals
• Kevin O’Connell, Minnesota Vikings
• Liam Coen, Jacksonville Jaguars
• Zac Robinson, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (OC)
• Ejiro Evero, Carolina Panthers (DC)
• Wes Phillips, Minnesota Vikings (OC)
• Matt Daniels, Minnesota Vikings (STC)
• Jedd Fisch, Washington Huskies
• Raheem Morris, likely to land DC role
• Brandon Staley, New Orleans Saints (DC)
• Nick Caley, Houston Texans (OC)

And the tree is likely to grow more branches this offseason. The LA Chargers could interview Aubrey Pleasant for their recently opened defensive coordinator role. Current Rams coordinators Chris Shula (DC) and Mike LaFleur (OC) should have chances at head coaching roles along with passing game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase.

While others attempt to emulate the Rams and McVay, there truly is no replication of the original. McVay has adapted his scheme and style multiple times over nine years with the team. He’s changed his identity as a heavy user of play action with Jared Goff to one of the most refined drop back passing games featuring Matthew Stafford, and then he returned to his roots in 2025. The newest trick up his sleeve is the frequent deployment of multiple tight ends in order to maximize advantages over defenses and tip their hands with personnel. The Rams took a time machine back 15 years and brought with them on their return a revamped under center passing attack.

McVay is always a step ahead of the competition. Those who copy him can only study where he’s been so far.

We don’t know how long the McVay era will last in Los Angeles. We do know the major NFL broadcasters remain very interested in his talents and these opportunities could grow more appealing now that he’s the father to two children. By age alone McVay has plenty of runway to become the greatest head coach in league history, but he’s a seemingly tormented soul that burns at both ends. We cannot rule out an unexpected break.

It would be a great joy to watch McVay stick the landing from late-career Matthew Stafford to LA’s next franchise signal caller. This would give us yet another reinvention of his trend setting offense. If the Rams win another championship or two, there’s a chance we see both Stafford and McVay hang it up in the coming years.

But this is all getting ahead of ourselves. Long-term Rams fans have know how dramatically fortune has shifted with McVay at the helm. Darker days are behind us and ahead.

For now all we can do is appreciate the moment we are in. The Rams are playing for another trip to the Super Bowl. These are fleeting moments for our team as well as most others. Win or lose we should be grateful for the journey and a decade of high quality football.

We can never take Sean McVay for granted. There isn’t another of his kind.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...3925/rams-sean-mcvay-playoffs-coaching-rumors

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

If Mike Tomlin’s an HOFer, McVay’s more so

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay is set to make his third conference championship appearance, the same number as Mike Tomlin in 19 seasons. If Tomlin is considered an Hall of Famer following his time in Pittsburgh, than McVay is more so.

Tomlin is the most overrated coach in NFL history. Everyone talks about all his winning seasons, which only hurt the Steelers’ overall success in recent years, rather than helped it. Even if most of his later teams in Pittsburgh had no business sniffing the playoffs, HOF-level coaches do not tie the NFL record for most consecutive playoff losses.

Already, McVay has been as productive as Tomlin or more so, and in half the time:

Mike Tomlin vs Sean McVay:

Tomlin:
Seasons As Head Coach – 19
Super Bowls – 1
Conference Championships – 2
Playoff Wins – 8

McVay:
Seasons As Head Coach – 9
Super Bowls – 1
Conference Championships – 2
Playoff Wins – 10

McVay has more playoff wins in half the amount of time pic.twitter.com/e8wqrr2yrK

— DraftKings (@DraftKings) January 21, 2026

The reason anyone considers Tomlin a lock for Canton is for being the youngest coach ever to win a Super Bowl, until McVay passed him in the 2022 championship. Let’s be real, Tomlin only won that game because he had the previous coach Bill Cowher’s roster, and most notably, a holdover in legendary defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau.

He walked into a quality situation the moment he got to Pittsburgh. That is more than you can say for McVay. He came to a team that hadn’t experienced a winning season since 2003 and had a shellshocked rookie under center in Jared Goff, who was looking like a bust after only seven games.

McVay navigated a roster overhaul at the beginning of his tenure and even a mini-rebuild in 2023, yet handled those situations remarkably. There’s something that can be said about Tomlin’s ability to win with the likes of Mason Rudolph, Justin Fields, Russell Wilson and a way past his prime Aaron Rodgers. Still, even then, HOF coaches are sometimes expected to overcome roster flaws and band-aid fixes at quarterback to steal a postseason win or two, and Tomlin failed at that massively following Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement.

I believe part of why Tomlin resigned is due to being unequipped to handle the significant changes that the Steelers desperately need. For a coach seemingly allergic to losing, it might’ve actually boosted his Hall of Fame case if he came out the other end of one lousy season like McVay had.

Then, there’s also impact on the sport. When you really think about it, what has Mike Tomlin contributed to the history of the NFL besides his non-losing streak?

McVay’s joining the Rams forever changed coaching hiring practices. Turf Show Time’s JB Scott touched on his incredible coaching tree, all before he turns 40 on Saturday. For someone who coached as long as Tomlin, he has no branches on his coaching tree to speak of, something that former Steelers star James Harrison said should hurt his candidacy.

Deebo did not hold back. Nineteen years or not, he says Mike Tomlin is not a Hall of Fame coach and points straight at the postseason record and the empty coaching tree.@jharrison9292 @joehaden23 #DeeboAndJoe pic.twitter.com/kUXagXFhz1

— Deebo & Joe (@deeboandjoe) January 16, 2026

Third time might not be the charm for McVay in Sunday’s NFC Championship, but the outcome shouldn’t damage his legacy. He has already done more for the Rams than a coach who had spent two decades on the sidelines. McVay’s path to Canton is rooted in innovation and breaking the NFL out of its comfort zone.

His contribution to the game is far greater than simply not losing ever could. McVay’s greatness deserves more recognition, while Tomlin’s Hall of Fame case warrants far more scrutiny than ever before.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/133939/rams-mcvay-tomlin-hall-of-fame-comparison

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Is Dan Orlovsky trying to get the Rams OC job?

On why he picked the Rams to beat the Seahawks in the NFC Championship game on First Take this week, ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky didn’t say it was because he thinks L.A. is the better team, or that Sam Darnold will make too many mistakes, or that Sean McVay is the best coach in the playoffs. In fact, he said that he was picking the Rams to win even though it’s “wrong”.

“I’d rather be wrong than un-loyal.”​

Orlovsky, who has been open about his interest in becoming an offensive coordinator, is close friends with Matthew Stafford, a teammate of his on the Detroit Lions. He was also once signed by McVay to coach Jared Goff, not to be a quarterback for the Rams. Is Orlovsky picking the Rams — a choice that HE SAID WAS “WRONG” — because he wants to be Stafford’s next OC and McVay’s next protege?

The Rams might not lose offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur to a head coaching job, but he’s rumored to be one of the top-three candidates for the Arizona Cardinals according to a report by Adam Schefter. If LaFleur leaves L.A. for a head coaching position, or a different offensive coordinator position (as someone who doesn’t call plays, that’s always on the table), he’ll be the latest in a long line of Rams offensive coordinators to part with the team under McVay.

Does Orlovsky think he has a realistic shot at replacing LaFleur and potentially getting into the NFL coaching pipeline?

With Philip Rivers interviewing to be the next head coach of the Buffalo Bills on Friday, anything is possible.

Last week, Orlovsky told Pat McAfee that he would “love to be the offensive coordinator” of the Lions, if they would have them. They…did not want to have him.

𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚: Former Lions’ QB and current ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky says he would love the opportunity to become the Lions’ next offensive coordinator, he told @PatMcAfeeShow

“I love Detroit and I love the Lions organization… I would love to be the offensive coordinator.”… pic.twitter.com/1wpZSKCoBm

— JPA (@jasrifootball) January 14, 2026

Notably, this would be an apt time for Orlovsky to leave broadcasting for a new career path.

NFL fans are questioning his biases more than ever and his credibility (which is something that only you can judge for yourself believe exists or not) is under fire. On Thursday, Orlovsky for some reason felt the need to apologize to C.J. Stroud for criticizing him after Stroud had one of the worst performances by a quarterback in playoff history. Criticizing Stroud isn’t a problem for an analyst, it’s the job. Apologizing for your analysis? That’s strange and not the job.

But apologizing for doing his job is not unusual for Orlovsky. After all, he’s the same person who in 2021 reported that his sources said Justin Fields was a “last in, first out” player at Ohio State and then a day later apologized for it. Well, which is it? Were you reporting something that wasn’t true and never happened or are you apologizing for doing the job you’re being hired for? Orlovsky never denied his report was true, he just apologized for being a reporter.

Orlovsky’s past with McVay​

Saying that you’re not picking the Rams to win, but you’re picking your friend to still like you after today, doesn’t exactly help Orlovsky’s case with the public’s perception of your credibility and biases. It would be different if Orlovsky said, “I’m picking the Rams to win because I believe they’re a better team and I believe Matthew Stafford is going to carry them to a victory.”

There would be nothing wrong with that but it’s not what he said. Even though the rest of ESPN’s crew picked the Seahawks to win, it doesn’t mean that the Seahawks will win. Nobody knows what will happen. Seattle could lose! Orlovksy could have simply said, “I’m picking the Rams. Deal with it.”

Instead, he said that the Rams would lose but he doesn’t care, he’s picking the Rams on the screen so that Matthew Stafford (and Sean McVay) sees it and knows he was “loyal”.

Fine.

But will it get you a job with the Rams like you might think?

One more thing. Orlovsky was on the Rams in 2017, Sean McVay’s first year with the team. He didn’t make the roster, but McVay told him that he would never make the team. The Rams only signed Orlovsky in 2017 because McVay wanted a mentor on the roster for Goff:

“‘You’re not going to do anything in training camp, Dan,'” Orlovsky recalled McVay telling him, via Farrar. “‘I just need you to teach him how to study tape, and teach him about defenses.’ And this isn’t a knock on Jared at all. Jared will tell you this straight up. I go out there, and every day, we would study tape in the meeting rooms. I would then go to Jared’s house and he had spent money, because Jared wanted to learn. He built himself a film study room.”

Orlovsky goes onto say that Goff isn’t “dumb” but that he didn’t know a lot of things that he really should have learned in college, if not high school.

Does Orlovsky think McVay might want him to do the same teaching for a quarterback who L.A. drafts in April? It might make sense if Orlovsky’s connection is Matthew Stafford, a close friend of his, going to bat (or should I say “not being un-loyal”) and saying that he’d be comfortable with Orlovsky as a quarterbacks coach, passing game coordinator, or offensive coordinator.

After all, the Rams are primed to lose more coach than one; Nate Scheelhaase could be leaving too. Coaches could be poached by other teams in the coming weeks. And Orlovsky’s just the type of snake oil salesman to see enough steps down the line to set himself up for a job he wants, whether he’s right for it or not. He did it when he went from one of the worst quarterbacks in NFL history to Twitter to ESPN.

Is his next con job the L.A. Rams?

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-rumors/133971/dan-orlovsky-rams-offensive-coordinator

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

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

The matchup between Puka Nacua and Devon Witherspoon may decide the NFC Championship.(Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

In the rubber game of the 2025-26 third game match, the Los Angeles Rams trek northwest to Lumen Field in Seattle Washington to meet the awaiting Seattle Seahawks. It’a a winner-take-all affair for the NFC Championship and a trip to Super Bowl LX. The kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. PST.

While the nation’s mid-section all the way up to the northeastern tip will be in the throes of a long-duration winter storm, the Rams Seahawks game should not have severe weather as a factor. Sunday expectations in Seattle are for sun and clouds, with high’s up to the mid-40’s and down to high 30’s, with calm winds.

In splitting their two previous meetings, the Rams have used two different approaches. Back in Week 11, the Rams defense bent, allowing 414 yards, but forced four interceptions and held the Seahawks to three field goals on four red zone possessions to come away with a 21-19 win. The Week 16 tilt was a bonafide shoot out with both defenses in withdrawal. The two squads combined for 75 points and almost 1000 yards of offense. This one went to overtime where Seattle converted a two-point PAT for 38-37 win.

Both teams are very close to full strength, injury-wise. The Rams welcomed tackle Rob Havenstein back after a long stint on the Injured Reserve List, but he will not be activated. Edge Byron Young, although bothered by a knee, is expected to at full strength. For Seattle, backup guard Josh Jones and part-time fullback Robbie Ouzts are questionable.

Here’s how to follow the game!

WATCH ON TV LIVE​

TV Coverage: Nationally on FOX

Play-By-Play: Kevin Burkhardt

Color Analyst: Tom Brady

Sideline Reporter: Erin Andrews

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 and 93.1 Jack FM (simulcast)

• 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

National Radio coverage: Westwood One

Play-by-play: Kevin Harlan

Color analyst: Kurt Warner

Sideline reporter: Ross Tucker

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 fans share NFC Championship expectations

Any shortcomings that the Los Angeles Rams had against the Seattle Seahawks in both games in 2025 can essentially boil down to the Rams failing to close out the Seahawks in the second half of contests that they should have won easily. In Week 11, the Rams intercepted Sam Darnold with a 21-12 lead and 11 minutes left in the game but couldn’t move the ball on their last three drives and Seattle ended up getting a 64-yard field goal try to win it and the kick wasn’t as close as the final 21-19 score.

In Week 16, the Rams blew a 16-point fourth quarter lead and Sean McVay’s conservative approach with regards to two-point conversions ended up being his downfall.

However, aside from the fourth quarter and overtime, the Rams have pretty much dominated the Seahawks.

Do Rams fans expect that to happen during Sunday’s NFC Championship — a repeat of the first two games — or do they think that McVay has learned from those mistakes and is ready to close out Seattle on their home turf and advance to his third career Super Bowl?

“I’ve learned I’m at my best when you’re around people that you love so much that you don’t want to let them down.”

– Sean McVay

Accountability hits different when it’s rooted in love for those beside you.

pic.twitter.com/diFWgI900j

— Greg Berge (@GregBerge) January 23, 2026

Post your score predictions​

Many are picking against the Rams this week. That never means anything.

What do you think will happen? Post your game and score predictions in the comments below!

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/general/133996/rams-fans-seahawks-nfc-championship-expectations

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams-Seahawks first half discussion: Championship Sunday

The Los Angeles Rams travel to take on the Seattle Seahawks at 6:30pm ET for Championship Sunday. Here’s our how to watch guide as no one is going to want this miss this matchup!

The Seahawks earned the 1-Seed and came back from their extended break looking like the best team in the NFL when they smashed the San Francisco 49ers in the Divisional Round.

Sam Darnold should be healthy, and with Kenneth Walker running the ball and Jaxon Smith-Njigba catching the rock, Seattle has more than enough firepower to win this game.

Factor in that Seattle has perhaps the best defense in the NFL, a top special teams weapon with Rashid Shaheed, and it may be very challenging to see a way in which the Rams can win on Sunday.

Of course, L.A. has had a great season and they’ve earned their spot in the final-four, but there are very fair reasons that Seattle is favored over L.A.

Matthew Stafford will need to play his best game of the year, their defense will need to be as sharp as ever, but after seeing the Rams blow 16-point lead the last time they played Seattle, it’s hard to see the Rams running away with this one, but if they can keep the game close, then they should give themselves a chance for the dub.

Enjoy the first half of the game, comment away on what you like, don’t like or whatever you want! And stay on the lookout for the second half game thread after the first half comes to a close!

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...wks-first-half-discussion-championship-sunday

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

10 takeaways from Rams season-ending loss to Seahawks

The Los Angeles Rams’ season comes to an end in the NFC Championship Game as they fell to the Seattle Seahawks, 31-27. Stafford and the offense had their chances, but it was the defense and special teams that fell short. Many of the issues that made the Rams a flawed team reared their ugly heads. Let’s get into our 10 takeaways.

1. Pass rush didn’t do enough​

The Rams built their defense with the idea that their pass rush could make the secondary better than it was. After intercepting Sam Darnold seven times in the previous three games and sacking him 16 times, they didn’t do enough on Sunday. The Rams got into third and longs multiple times and the pass rush disappeared. Several times the Seahawks converted in those situations.

This isn’t necessarily a knock on the Rams pass rush. The front office put all of the eggs into that basket and it cost them. For the Rams defense to work at its full potential, the pass rush needed to get home and they didn’t. Sam Darnold threw for 346 yards and three touchdowns. Darnold was sacked just three times and didn’t turn the ball over. For the Rams to win, they needed to get to Darnold and everything was simply too easy for him.

2. McVay and Stafford bounced back​

There was no doubt that Matthew Stafford and Sean McVay both had bad performances against the Chicago Bears in the Divisional Round. There were some questions about both heading into Sunday, but both showed up in a positive way. Sean McVay’s game plan against Mike Macdonald worked. The Rams got back into 13 personnel and found success running the ball. It is fair to question whether or not McVay should have gone for two, but he did a lot of good things in this game.

From a quarterback perspective, the Rams are not in this game without Matthew Stafford. Against any other team, the Seahawks run away with this game. Every time that the Seahawks scored, the Rams and Stafford answered. Stafford threw for 374 yards and three touchdowns. The Rams quarterback gave them a chance to win, but the two other units came up short.

3. Defense didn’t do its part​

For the fifth time in the last nine games, the Rams defense gave up more than 30 points. Darnold had almost 150 yards before the end of the first quarter and the defense struggled getting a stop. With five minutes to play, the Rams needed one stop from the defense and they couldn’t get it before it was too late. The defense gave up four touchdowns in five trips to the red zone.

It simply wasn’t good enough. The defense struggled tackling in space and the Seahawks went 7-for-13 on third down. Several of those conversions came on 3rd-and-long. It’s hard to blame Chris Shula because the talent in the secondary simply wasn’t good enough. However, the defense simply didn’t do their part. After how they finished in Week 16, it was fair to expect this unit to play better.

4. End of half sequence was costly​

There was a point in which the Rams seemed to be in control of the game. They led 13-10 and had the ball with 1:33 to play. This isn’t to say that they should have just run the clock out, but the following sequence proved to be costly. Instead of sustaining a drive or ensuring the Seahawks didn’t have time, the Rams took 39 seconds off the clock. Additionally, in a high-stakes moment, Ronnie Rivers was in the game.

Instead of extending their lead, the Rams punted back to the Seahawks. Seattle went 74 yards in 34 seconds to take the lead. The Rams should have gone into the half with the lead or tied at the bare minimum. Instead, they were trailing with the Seahawks set to get the ball at the start of the half. This sequence ended up being a costly one.

5. Xavier Smith lost Rams the game​

Despite everything that happened at the end of the first half, the Rams defense got a three-and-out to start the second half. The offense was set to get the ball back with a chance to take the lead. Prior to the game, Tutu Atwell was a healthy scratch for special teams reasons. After muffing a punt early in the game, Xavier Smith muffed a second punt and wasn’t as lucky this time. The Seahawks recovered and scored a touchdown on the next play.

This is the play that lost the Rams the game. For the rest of the game, Kyren Williams returned punts while Tutu Atwell remained a healthy scratch. Special teams was a problem all season and a lack of focus from Smith ended up being a huge swing.

6. Rams failed Matthew Stafford​

Back in 2021, the Rams finally gave Stafford a team that he could lead to the Super Bowl. This season, Stafford played well enough to get to a Super Bowl and the Rams let him down. At 37 years old, these seasons aren’t a guarantee and the front office didn’t make the push that they should have. In the two losses to the Seahawks, Stafford threw for 831 yards and six touchdowns with zero interceptions and lost. The Rams may not have failed Stafford in the same way that the Detroit Lions did, but they still failed him.

At the end of the day, these Stafford seasons aren’t a guarantee at this point of his career. The Rams had a quarterback playing at an MVP level and failed to give him a defense that could hold up their end of the bargain. Sunday’s loss to the Seahawks is pretty simple. The Rams failed Stafford. Matthew Stafford is the first quarterback ever to throw for 350 or more yards, three or more touchdowns, have zero turnovers, and lose a playoff game.

7. Season on the line goes to Mumpfield and Ferguson?​

The Rams had the ball at the Seahawks’ six-yard line facing 3rd-and-4. Stafford was flushed from the pocket and targeted Konata Mumpfield. On 4th-and-4, Stafford went to Terrance Ferguson in the back of the end zone who was well-covered by Devon Witherspoon. Both passes fell incomplete. It seems odd that with the season on the line, Puka Nacua and Davante Adams didn’t see a target.

With five minutes left, it’s possible that the Rams thought that they would get another shot. However, given the leverage of the situation, Adams or Nacua should have gotten at least one target. Mumpfield was a seventh-round pick and Ferguson wasn’t seen as good enough by the coaching staff until Week 10. With the season on the line, it was odd that a target didn’t go to Nacua or Adams.

8. Season-long issues cost Rams​

Throughout the offseason it was clear that the Rams needed a cornerback. The front office said that a 32-year-old, a first-round bust, and 30-year-old cornerback who showed no interest in tackling were enough. Time and time again throughout the season before the trade deadline, it was an issue. With an extra first round pick in a weaker draft class at the top, the Rams stood pat. The biggest move they made was a day three pick swap for Roger McCreary.

Outside of the secondary, it was once again special teams coming back to bite the Rams. The defense came up with a rare stop to start the second half. Instead of getting the ball back, Xavier Smith muffed the return. These were the issues all season long. What if the Rams had kept Britain Covey over Smith? What if the Rams had traded for Jalen Ramsey or Sauce Gardner? These were the issues throughout the season and it cost them when it mattered most.

9. This may have been the best chance with Stafford​

When the Detroit Lions lost the NFC Championship Game in 2023, head coach Dan Campbell said, “This may have been our only shot.” This isn’t necessarily saying that the Rams are the Lions, but Campbell was right in the sentiment of his statement. This very likely could have been the Rams’ final shot with Matthew Stafford. It’s very difficult to get to Championship Sunday and it’s not a guarantee to get back. Matthew Stafford threw for 52 touchdowns and played at an MVP level. Puka Nacua played at an Offensive Player of the Year level. These seasons are rare. It takes a lot to get to this point of the season.

It’s very easy to say that the Rams can just run it back next year. However, Stafford and Davante Adams will be another year older. There’s no guarantee that the Rams are as healthy as they were all season. Again, the Rams were 14 yards away from hosting the NFC Championship Game last year and just needed to beat Sam Darnold this season. These are two major ‘what if’ years.

10. Can still be proud of this team​

The way that the 2025 season finished was certainly disappointing. However, it’s hard not to appreciate and be proud of what this team did this season. This was one of the more fun Rams teams to watch outside of 2021. Stafford played at a MVP level after concerns about his back in August. That doesn’t mention Nacua’s season and Davante Adams leading the NFL in touchdown receptions. It’s been a long year and a Super Bowl would have meant a lot. However, it just wasn’t meant to be.

Again, it’s a testament to what it takes to win a Super Bowl. A lot of things have to go right. That doesn’t mean that this season was a failure or it didn’t matter. This is a team that won’t be forgotten for a while. It hurts now, but this team never stopped fighting. There’s a lot to be proud of because of the potential that this team had and that’s why this one hurts.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...2/rams-seahawks-nfc-championship-10-takeaways

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

How confident are you that the Rams are on Super Bowl 2026 track?

The Rams went 12-5 and came within a fourth down of potentially beating the Seahawks and advancing to the Super Bowl. But was this their best shot to win another Super Bowl with Matthew Stafford?

Or are fans confident that the Rams will be able to win the NFC West in 2026 if they “run it back” with most of the same coaches and players?

What do you think? Should Rams be among 2026 Super Bowl favorites?​

Scroll down to the comments of this post and let us know what you think. I’ll post some prompts, all you have to do is give your honest opinion. Are the Rams still on track to win a Super Bowl with Stafford and Sean McVay in 2026? Or do the Rams need to consider drastic changes in order to upend the NFC West and get back to the top within 2-3 years?

Go down to the comments and share your thoughts. Rec the comments you agree with the most.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-discussion/134152/rams-super-bowl-2026-track

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams-Seahawks: Plays and game management end Lombardi journey

Sometimes the better team does not win. Make no mistake, the Los Angeles Rams were the better team heading into last night’s NFC Championship Game against the Seattle Seahawks despite being 2.5 point underdogs. I do not take away anything from the Seattle Seahawks this season. A lot of the storyline going into this game was the Rams #1 offense vs. Seattle’s #1 defense. Well, the Rams offense was largely superior to the Seahawks defense. They were better. But it was the special teams that killed the Rams yet again. I guess you could argue that because of the Rams special teams, they were not the better team. However, even despite that costly turnover, the Seahawks had to play nearly perfect on offense with Sam Darnold. And they did (again credit to them). But one night does not encapsulate who I think was the better team this season.

Rant over.

The Los Angeles Rams know that self inflicted errors cost them a chance at playing in Super Bowl LX against the New England Patriots. Missed opportunities, missed tackles, special teams, and game management all had an impact in their 31-27 loss. Here are the plays that I think defined the game:

1a. Rams offensive series and defensive series under 2 minutes in 1st half, (Rams 13 – Seahawks 10), 1:33 left in 2nd Quarter

After forcing a three & out to get the ball back before halftime, the Rams had a great opportunity to go into halftime with the lead and even a chance to add onto their lead. However, they COMPLETELY screwed themselves when they gave the ball back to Seattle with over a minute remaining and Seattle still having all three of their timeouts. Here is what transpired on offense:

The Rams made a huge mistake not running the ball on 2nd down. It would have forced the Seahawks to either call a timeout or let the clock continue the run. Even if it was 3rd & 5 after a 0 yard run, and Seattle had called a timeout, the Rams would have been able to game plan whether they wanted to run again on 3rd down and force another timeout or push the envelope and pass. Instead, the Rams passed on 2nd down and then called a timeout of their own. Furthermore, a management issue was that Ronnie Rivers was the 3rd down target. Ronnie Rivers, RB3, should have never been on the field in that situation.

Then after going back on defense, the Rams allowed the Seahawks to go 74 yards on 6 plays in just 34 seconds. Absolutely killer for 2nd half momentum.

1b. Rams secondary drops interception, (Rams 13 – Seahawks 10), 0:49 left in 2nd Quarter

Sam Darnold was not perfect in this game. He actually did make an errant throw. Unfortunately, the Rams did not make him pay like they did in Weeks 11 and 16. Jaylen McCollough deflected a pass intended for Cooper Kupp but there was another Rams DB waiting for the errant throw. Had McCollough not tipped it, the Rams would have had the interception and probably run the ball deep into Seattle territory.

2. Xavier Smith muffed punt, (Rams 13 – Seahawks 17), 12:17 left in the 3rd Quarter

It was shades of 2017 in the wild card round against Atlanta. On a prior punt, Xavier Smith showed nerves fielding a punt. In the 3rd quarter, he muffed a Dickinson punt; giving the ball back to the Seahawks in the redzone. It was probably the biggest swing in the game as the Seahawks were able to expand their lead to two scores and the Rams constantly were playing catch up and trying to create a stop on defense.

Xavier Smith cost the Rams in the NFC Championship pic.twitter.com/Vb0xvSzguV

— Zach Sports (@zachsports503) January 26, 2026

3. Rams can’t finish drive with touchdown; missing on 3rd and 4th down, (Rams 27 – Seahawks 31), 5:06 left in the 4th Quarter

The offense did everything right on the drive. They went 84 yards on 12 plays. Sean McVay’s offense was wokring Mike Macdonald’s defense. But on 3rd down and 4th down, the Rams could not get the last 6 yards they needed to take the lead. On 3rd down, Matthew Stafford tried to target Konata Mumpfield but was denied. Then on 4th down, his pass to Terrance Ferguson was broken up by Devon Witherspoon.

#Rams 3rd & 4 in the deep red, if I know I’m goin on 4th, I’m running it at least once.

These play-callers make the game harder than it needs to be. pic.twitter.com/LlqvnvYJP9

— Landon Holifield ✭ (@TheLandoShow) January 26, 2026

4. Cooper Kupp picks up questionable first down, (Rams 27 – Seahawks 31), 3:20 left in the 4th Quarter

The Rams defense got into the 3rd down they needed but they could never come up with the big play on 3rd down consistently to get off the field. Kupp’s catch gave the Seahawks a brand new set of downs and allowed them to drain another 3 minutes of game clock.

Garage Officiating: #Rams just got cheated out of a shot of getting the ball back!!

Kupp doesn’t survive the ground with this catch.

The rules for a catch changes every week.#Seahawks move on. pic.twitter.com/dDXd5wU48D

— FirstDownMedia (@FirstDownMediaa) January 26, 2026

5. Cobie Durant called for holding, (Rams 27 – Seahawks 31), 2:17 left in the 4th Quarter

If there is one penalty that is worth complaining about, it’s this one. The refs missed a lot of calls in the game. A no-call defensive pass interference on Quentin Lake went in favor of the Rams. But the Rams were on the short end of the stick with the majority of plays. Davante Adams was held by a defensive back by his hair, Tariq Woolen pulled Puka Nacua by the neck to deflect a pass, Matthew Stafford had his facemask pulled on a sack, and then this call on Cobie Durant with the game on the line… I’m not disputing that there is contact by Durant. But Kupp was not the target on the play and this was near identical contact by Durant as was by Nick Emmanwori on a play to Davante Adams (who was the intended target).

Refs decided: The #RamsvsSeahawks was filled with bad calls.

But this is the call to end the game and decide who was going to Super Bowl LX.

And they called a routine play a hold…#NFL officiating has gone out the window this year. pic.twitter.com/pw6VBV7JJV

— FirstDownMedia (@FirstDownMediaa) January 26, 2026

Nick Emmanwori 5 TKL, 3 PD vs LAR NFC Championship Today.pic.twitter.com/sWbFSF1Yas https://t.co/ZPb2l6w0HA

— Football Performances (@NFLPerformances) January 26, 2026

See the :27 mark on the Nick Emmanwori video. A clear pull on Davante Adams out of the break. No different than Cooper Kupp.

There you have it. The Rams 2025 season is over. And they must move on to 2026…

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...seahawks-nfc-championship-game-defining-plays

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Matthew Stafford won’t commit to playing in 2026 yet

Matthew Stafford might win the league’s MVP award and could have just had the best playoff game of his career, but the Rams quarterback isn’t sure if he wants to play again or not.

On the Let’s Go! podcast, Stafford said he’s not ready to make a decision about his future yet and will let everyone knows his choice after he’s had more time to reflect.

“It’ll be a lot that goes into it,. It’s a physical, a mental and emotional decision, a personal and a family decision as well. So, we’ll figure all that kind of stuff out with some time. I know I had a ton of fun playing football this season and had so much fun playing for the Rams. So when I’m ready to figure that out, I’ll be ready to figure that out. That moment isn’t right now. I have so much more time, I feel like, to reflect on just the people and the season that we just had. I want to appreciate that and give it the time that it deserves before I start thinking personally about what’s next for me and my family.”

Stafford threw a career-high 46 touchdowns in 2025, many more than second place, and came within yards of potentially reaching the Super Bowl. But having a great season may not necessarily indicate a desire to play an 18th season. If he doesn’t, the Rams have massive decisions to make on who will be the next quarterback and whether or not L.A. can even compete for the Super Bowl next year without Stafford.

Backup Jimmy Garoppolo is a free agent. He might be the most ready to take over Sean McVay’s offense right away, but he’s also had a limited career leading him to becoming a backup again.

The Rams have two first round picks, but not necessarily a clear path to the next Drake Maye in the 2026 class without a top-10 pick.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a.../matthew-stafford-retirement-rumors-rams-news

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Don’t overrate the value of the Hall of Fame or Pro Bowl

Within about 24 hours of each other, both the Hall of Fame and the Pro Bowl jumped the shark and lost any last shreds of respect they had from the public, the players, the media, and the coaches. On Tuesday, news leaked via ESPN’s Adam Schefter that Bill Belichick, by far the most successful coach in football history, is not getting inducted this year.

His resume doesn’t even need to be mentioned. His credentials are obvious to anyone who has followed the NFL for longer than a day. He’s Bill Belichick. But for whatever reason, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, on his first year of eligibility, snubbed him.

Bill Belichick, the 8-time Super Bowl-winning HC, is not a first-ballot Hall of Famer, per @SethWickersham and @DVNJr. Belichick fell short of the 40 out of 50 votes needed for induction to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.https://t.co/ooJutI0C0Q

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 27, 2026

So the next time you’re having an argument with somebody about Matthew Stafford’s “obvious” induction into the Hall of Fame one day because he’s a Super Bowl winner and he might also add an MVP to his resume in the coming weeks, just remember that…BILL BELICHICK IS NOT A FIRST BALLOT HALL OF FAMER.

Stafford could get snubbed for literally any reason. If Belichick had to wait for the Hall of Fame, every single person involved with the sport is subject to the same level of fickleness and stupidity.

Set aside your biases against Belichick. Forget blaming it on “cheating” scandals that never once resulted in serious punishment by the NFL during his career. (He won three Super Bowls after both of his major cheating scandals.)

He’s Bill Belichick. Enough said.

I can’t be reading this right.

This has to be some knock-off Hall of Fame or something, it can’t be the actual NFL Hall of Fame.

There is not a single world whatsoever in which Bill Belichick should not be a First-Ballot Hall of Famer. https://t.co/OXhL1Sd4FM

— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) January 27, 2026

Man there's no way I read that right! Right? Ain't no WAY Bill Belichick ain't 1st Ballot HOF!! That's IMPOSSIBLE, EGREGIOUS, and quite frankly DISRESPECTFUL!

— LeBron James (@KingJames) January 28, 2026

If Bill Belichick isn’t a 1st Ballot NFL Hall of Famer, then NO ONE SHOULD BE.

— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) January 27, 2026

Bill Belichick is officially not a first ballot Pro Football Hall Of Famer

Bill Belichick..

Bill Belichick could be in conversations for Coach AND GM and he isn’t a first ballot Hall Of Famer in the PRO FOOTBALL Hall Of Fame https://t.co/B82i0PTbMD pic.twitter.com/LIg7DoFrFT

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) January 27, 2026

As a HOF coach I think Bill Belichick is the greatest of all time…yes he had a great QB but we all did..he won AFTER THE salary cap and free agency plus I Know how much he LOVES THE NFL and the game..I’m pissed.. https://t.co/1Pfd42a2rd

— Jimmy Johnson (@JimmyJohnson) January 28, 2026

Belichick not being a first ballot Hall of Famer makes Torry Holt’s annual sub look like a “who left the toilet seat up?” scandal at home.

And Torry Holt deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.

The timing of the breaking news is interesting because it almost completely covered up the fact that the NFL made Shedeur Sanders a Pro Bowl quarterback on Monday. Arguably the worst PLAYER in the NFL this season, the least valuable quarterback in the league, Sanders is getting a Pro Bowl nod. There have been many bad Pro Bowl players in the past — Tyler Huntley is “a Pro Bowl quarterback” — and the Pro Bowl has had way less respect from people than the Hall of Fame.

Perfect timing for Pro Bowl next week! ️ Shedeur is headed to SF!!

Read more: https://t.co/YwPBz56N4M pic.twitter.com/Lo9kNFaWG5

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) January 27, 2026

But Sanders was objectively terrible and far worse than rookie classmate Cam Ward, a legitimately underrated signal caller who is more deserving to be the face of tomorrow’s NFL, and now the league is handing him a spot at the Pro Bowl.

Yes, we all know what you’re about to say…“The Pro Bowl is a joke and it doesn’t matter!”

Great, we all get it. That’s not an original thought.

Let’s talk to the quarterbacks who were not picked instead of Sanders, the ones who would have earned bonuses and made more money for their efforts and been able to build a small check mark on a now-made-worthless “hall of fame resume” because the NFL is trying to drive up ratings for a game that nobody wants to watch.

Should we care that much that Shedeur Sanders is a Pro Bowl professional football player who has yet to prove he is capable of even playing professional football? Not necessarily.

That doesn’t mean we can’t call it out. For players like Matthew Stafford, who had 1 Pro Bowl nod in his first 13 years in the league, it starts to round into shape why award-based resumes are just as worthless as the ballot you send into the NFL for Pro Bowl votes. Or the paper that Hall of Famers used to snub the greatest coach in NFL history.

You think Sean McVay is an easy choice to make the Hall of Fame because voters “like him” and they don’t like Belichick?

That’s only true today. It’s no guarantee that it’s how voters will feel tomorrow. Belichick was once a three-time Super Bowl head coach + two-time Super Bowl defensive coordinator without a serious off-field blemish on his record.

Now that over 20% of the voters decided that they didn’t “like” Belichick enough to vote him in, whether that’s because of scandals or his post-career dating stories, many fans and media members are wondering if they should ever pay attention to who gets into the Hall of Fame again.

“Snubbed Bill Belichick and awarded Shedeur Sanders.” How’s that for a resume?

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a.../belichick-hall-of-fame-matthew-stafford-snub

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

5 players who caught my eye on Day 1 of Senior Bowl

Nov 22, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers linebacker Kyle Louis (9) reacts after a sack with defensive lineman Isaiah Neal (2) against the GeoDay twrgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the first quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium at Hyundai Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

The 2026 Panini Senior Bowl kicked off on Tuesday afternoon with the first day of practice. As they say, the NFL Draft starts in Mobile and there was a lot to like on the opening day. This should be a good week, with players competing and trying to prove themselves. Here are some players who caught my eye on Tuesday.

1. LB Kyle Louis, Pitt​

It would not be surprising to see the Rams take a linebacker in the later stages of the NFL Draft in April. The Rams have a history of taking hybrid-style linebackers and Kyle Louis fits that bill. Louis was one of the more fun players to watch on Day 1 of the Senior Bowl. He had an interception in 1-on-1s and then forced a fumble in team drills. Louis is one of the better coverage linebackers in the class and he showed that on Tuesday. That skill set is what the Rams are currently missing at the position.

Pitt LB Kyle Louis had one of the best individual reps on Day 1. Beautiful coverage here pic.twitter.com/9CzGXnWzgh

— Jack Brentnall (@Jack_Brentnall) January 28, 2026

2. OT Dametrious Crownover, Texas A&M​

Given how Warren McClendon finished the season, it’s unlikely that the Rams draft will a tackle in the first two rounds. However, they lack depth at the position and could use another sixth man and swing tackle that they can develop. Crownover may have been one of the more impressive tackles on Day 1 in Mobile. He consistently won in 1-on-1s and then was solid in the team periods. The Texas A&M tackle is off to a strong week.

Texas A&M OT Dametrious Crownover has been the best offensive tackle in the one-on-one drills. Here he is shutting down Romello Height. Those long arms are a huge advantage pic.twitter.com/A24Z6HEgUA

— Trevor Sikkema (@TampaBayTre) January 27, 2026

3. CB Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State​

A lot of my focus at the Senior Bowl will be at the cornerback position. Tennessee’s Colton Hood is in Mobile and could go at the end of the first round. With that said, if the Rams were to double-up at the position, Davison Igbinosun is an option on day two. He’s a longer cornerback with the Rams need and brings good speed. His physicality can lead to penalties, but he was sticky in coverage for most of the day and had a few nice pass breakups.

Beautiful pass breakup by Davison Igbinosun CB Ohio State! #SeniorBowl @AtoZSportsNFL pic.twitter.com/YhW2PmEdGj

— Travis May (@FF_TravisM) January 27, 2026

4. OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State​

The Rams may have found their answer at right tackle in Warren McClendon. However, it’s still hard to put all of their eggs in that basket. The Rams would be smart to tackle a tackle on day two that could at least provide some depth. Max Iheanachor may have been the best tackle on the day in team drills. Zion Young was impressive on the edge all afternoon and Iheanachor handled him well.

ASU RT Max Iheanachor punish jumpers pic.twitter.com/W0LoriB3lR

— Billy M (@BillyM_91) January 27, 2026

5. QB Cole Payton, North Dakota State​

One player I am most intrigued to watch this week will be North Dakota State’s Cole Payton. When it comes to FCS players, there’s always a question of how they will perform against tougher competition. Payton did his job on Tuesday, which was to show that he belonged in Mobile. The North Dakota State quarterback is a lefty and has a bit of an elongated motion, but there is also a lot to like.

The "try not to get crazy about Cole Payton challenge" starts tonight.

Payton does a nice job flipping his hips out of the play action boot here. Pass is a little behind his WR, but a good downfield completion. pic.twitter.com/KHAAt3JsTF

— Blaine Grisak (@bgrisakTST) January 28, 2026

Others to Watch​

• EDGE Zion Young, Mizzou
• CB Julian Neal, Arkansas
• EDGE Derrick Moore, Michigan
• iOL Jake Slaughter, Florida
• WR Ted Hurst, Georgia State
• WR Kevin Coleman, Mizzou
• iOL Logan Taylor, Boston College
• OT Kage Casey, Boise State
• iOL Beau Stephens, Iowa
• RB Nick Singleton, Penn State

It’s hard to mention everybody, but these are some other players that caught my eye throughout the day and I’ll be watching closely the rest of the week. Wide receivers like Ted Hurst and Kevin Coleman really stood out. Logan Taylor and Beau Stephens were fun to watch on the interior. While the Rams may not go with a running back, Nick Singleton was the best player in pass pro drills.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...r-bowl-day-1-standouts-kyle-louis-cole-payton

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams 7-round mock draft: Will Snead put focus on secondary?

If one thing became clear for the Los Angeles Rams, it’s that they need help at the cornerback position in 2026. It’s not something that they can continue to ignore. With two first-round picks in the upcoming draft, the Rams should be able to add a talented player or two in the secondary. The season may be over, but we immediately jump to the draft. Let’s get into our first official mock draft of the offseason.

13th Overall – CB Mansoor Delane, LSU​

The Rams need to do whatever they can to get an elite talent with their first pick of the draft. If it doesn’t look like Delane or another top-level prospect will drop, the Rams need to make a move and be aggressive. This is a player who can transform the Rams’ secondary and someone that they can build around at the cornerback position. He’s a very good man corner and can anticipate route combinations. This is also someone that can move around the defense in different roles. Jermod McCoy will be an option, but with the medicals it’s a big risk. There’s no such thing as a sure-thing in the draft, but Delane is exactly what the Rams need.

#LSU CB Mansoor Delane continues to play like the best cover man (zone or man) in CFB. Easy NFL starter grade as a prospect.

3 PD, 1 INT vs. Arkansas pic.twitter.com/VpYuxx0hpf

— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) November 17, 2025

29th Overall – WR Chris Bell, Louisville​

The Rams can exchange one Louisville wide receiver for another. However, this one may be a better fit. Immediately in 2026, the Rams need to improve the third wide receiver spot behind Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. Bell provides that and the immediate ability to play that “Z role” in the offense. The big concern with Bell is that he is coming off of an ACL tear and may not be available right away. However, with Adams and Nacua, there isn’t a need for Bell to be ready. The Rams can slowly work Bell in as he gets healthy and then unleash him in the second half of the season. Bell is a big-bodied wide receiver who plays physical and can stretch the field.

61st Overall – D’Angelo Ponds, Indiana​

There will be some concerns here because of Ponds’ size. With that said, Ponds doesn’t play like he’s 5’9. He plays much bigger than that as someone who’s competitive at the catch point and isn’t afraid of contact. The Rams have had success with cornerbacks like that such as Darious Williams. Ponds has great ball production, and playing across from Delane, this would be an immediate upgrade at the cornerback position. Those two completely change the dynamic of the Rams’ secondary.

Indiana CB D’Angelo Ponds is so damn good

No need to mention the size. You can’t put a collar on that DAWG.

pic.twitter.com/0avQPrflmg

— Clint Goss (@NFLDraftDome) January 20, 2026

93rd Overall – OT Drew Shelton, Penn State​

While the Rams don’t necessarily need to draft a tackle in the first round, they should consider one on day two. Warren McClendon played well, but it would still be risky putting all of their eggs in that basket. At the very least, Shelton provides experienced depth as someone who can play both on the left and right side in a pinch. Shelton can also slide inside and play guard. The Rams need to upgrade their tackle depth with McClendon being promoted as a starter. Shelton is an upgrade over Humphries and someone who could potentially be developed into a starter down the line.

167th Overall – QB Drew Allar, Penn State​

There’s no doubt that Drew Allar is a controversial prospect. He didn’t live up to the expectations this year before his injury. Still, there is no denying the arm talent and potential. Taking a flier on that at the end of the fifth-round is worth it. You could even throw Cade Klubnik or Cole Payton in this spot if they are available. In a best-case scenario, the Rams get a bargain on a high-level prospect that develops into a starter. At worst, Allar is a high-upside backup that learns behind Matthew Stafford and replaces Stetson Bennett. It’s a low-risk, high-reward in the fifth-round.

205th Overall – S Cole Wisniewski, Texas Tech​

Wisniewski played well over the weekend at the Shrine Bowl and is exactly what the Rams need. He’s an immediate upgrade over Jaylen McCollough as the dime linebacker/safety in light packages. Wisniewski is a former linebacker at North Dakota State and those instincts are evident. That experience as a linebacker makes him a plus-player in run support which is key in the Rams’ light packages. Despite his strength against the run, he still displays good range in coverage. At the very least, Wisniewski is an impact player on special teams immediately.

208th Overall – LB Kyle Louis, Pitt​

It wouldn’t hurt for the Rams to upgrade at linebacker over Omar Speights. The Rams can get away with one player that has limitations in coverage like Nate Landman. They need a better partner who makes up for Landman’s deficiencies. That’s Kyle Louis who is a hybrid player who has the skillset of a safety, but plays linebacker. He’s a strong open-field tackler and may be one of the better coverage linebackers in the class.

Pittsburgh LB Kyle Louis is one of my favorite sleeper prospects in a stacked LB class

– only 220 lbs, but takes on and sheds 2nd level blocks efficiently
– elite in coverage; plays more like a slot corner in man/zone/at the catch point
– twitched up athlete with… pic.twitter.com/alOpBVu7AR

— Drew Beatty (@IronCityFilm) January 11, 2026

232nd Overall – DL Tyler Onyedim, Texas A&M​

It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Rams continue to add to the depth of the defensive line. Onyedim is a versatile player who excels against the run and has over 1,700 career snaps. The Texas A&M defensive lineman plays with good explosiveness and his motor always runs hot.

250th Overall – TE Nate Boerkircher, Texas A&M​

The Rams need to continue adding to the tight end position this offseason. Tyler Higbee could be gone and both Colby Parkinson and Davis Allen will be in contract years. Boerkircher wasn’t used as a receiver, but he has some upside there. However, his specialty is as a blocker which should help the Rams move to more 13 personnel.

Texas A&M TE Nate Boerkircher (#87) only caught 38 passes in five years, but imo he's a prime candidate to be the "Jackson Hawes" of this class: Stud blocker who finds a long-term home on Day 3.

Look how much power he generates at the POA here. Sound, well-leveraged, physical. pic.twitter.com/Bk8yu7ZtF1

— Ian Cummings (@IC_Draft) January 21, 2026

256th Overall – EDGE Wesley Williams, Duke​

It’ll be curious to see how the Rams address the edge rusher position this offseason. They are solid at the top three with Jared Verse, Byron Young, and Josaiah Stewart. Desjuan Johnson found a role there as well at the end of the season. Williams plays the run well, but has some upside as a pass pressure with an ability to generate pressure

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...3/rams-2026-mock-draft-cornerback-senior-bowl

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Former Rams QB is Eagles new offensive coordinator

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 30: Sean Mannion #14 of the Los Angeles Rams takes the field in the fourth quarter agaisnt the San Francisco 49ers at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 30, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. Rams won 48-32. (Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Sean Mannion used to play for Sean McVay. Now he’s competing against him to be next season’s best NFL offensive coordinator.

The Eagles hired Mannion to be their next offensive coordinator only three seasons after Mannion’s final season as a quarterback. The Rams play at the Philadelphia Eagles in 2026, setting up a showdown between mentor and student.

More on the hiring of Sean Mannion: https://t.co/7iJFKcwHxJ pic.twitter.com/oYiEKdMRfk

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) January 29, 2026

Mannion was a third round pick by the Rams in 2015 out of Oregon State, which is not an insignificant investment. But the Rams drafted Jared Goff in 2016, pushing Mannion down the pecking order and all but eliminating his future with L.A. after Jeff Fisher was fired. However, McVay liked Mannion enough to keep him through 2018 and Mannion even started the meaningless season finale game in 2017.

He went back and forth between the Vikings and Seahawks for four years until retiring after the 2023 season. Mannion’s been on a coaching rocket ship since then, going from Packers assistant in 2024 to QB coach in 2025 and now he’s the OC of the Eagles, replacing the fired Kevin Patullo after one season.

If all goes well, Mannion could be a rival head coach soon. Consider that another former backup QB, Kellen Moore, quickly leapfrogged from Eagles OC to Saints HC, although he had a lot more prior coaching experience.

Many of you vividly remember Mannion as a Rams player. Now you can think of him as an important coach trying to beat them.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...ean-mannion-rams-eagles-offensive-coordinator

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Should the Rams really go ‘all in’ again?

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 25: Braden Fiske #55 of the Los Angeles Rams celebrates after sacking Sam Darnold #14 of the Seattle Seahawks during the second quarter in the NFC Championship game at Lumen Field on January 25, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) | Getty Images

This year’s Los Angeles Rams were one of the best in all of football. But they ran into what is resoundingly the best team in the NFL in the Seattle Seahawks. LA came up just short in the NFC Championship game.

The Rams were on the cusp of reaching their third Super Bowl under Sean McVay. Matthew Stafford is playing the best football of his decade-and-a-half career.

It makes total sense to pick up the pieces for one final run… right?

I’m not so sure.

Los Angeles’ roster is young in all the best spots. They have a league-leading receiver in Puka Nacua. Their defensive line talent is a collection of some of the most team-friendly rookie contracts across the NFL with Kobie Turner, Byron Young, Jared Verse, Braden Fiske, and Tyler Davis. The Rams just hit the jackpot with Warren McClendon and now won’t have to spend high dollar in free agency to replace Rob Havenstein.

There are holes, of course. The entire cornerback room needs overhauled and revamped. LA needs a formidable receiver that can compliment Nacua and pose a threat between the 20-yard lines. These are premium positions and upgrading in this area will cost either a pretty penny or premium draft capital.

But nonetheless the Rams have one of the most young and promising rosters in the NFL. If they can thread the needle between the Stafford era and the team’s next franchise quarterback, they are well-positioned for success for the foreseeable future.

It’s easy to talk yourself into tooling up for one more run. The Rams themselves have pushed all the chips to the middle of the table before and won the Lombardi jackpot.

This time seems different, however.

Does a narrow focus on the short-term jeopardize a roster that is well-suited for the future? With how many ascending young players the Rams have to re-sign, can they really afford bloated veteran contracts?

The Rams’ best chance to win a Super Bowl with Stafford probably was in 2025. Now Stafford, Davante Adams, and others are another year older. They enjoyed incredible success. But if we are honest, the Rams enjoyed some fortunate developments on the injury front and that is never guaranteed.

For as much as it makes sense to go “all in” again, it also seems wise to embrace the young talent in Los Angeles and stick with the youth movement. With two first-round picks in this spring’s draft, LA could easily come away with cornerstone players at receiver and corner. This would give them long-term answers at the most important positions across the roster.

Turning the page won’t be easy. It would mean saying goodbye to veterans who have memorable moments in horns: Adams, Darious Williams, Kam Curl, and possibly Stafford.

We cannot ignore that the Rams have a promising future. It should be protected at all costs, even if that means not making the most of the final year of a championship window. It could be time to replace the window.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...86/rams-offseason-matthew-stafford-retirement