Rams Playoff Outlook: navigating the Final Stretch to the NFC Playoffs
The Los Angeles Rams secured a crucial 27-24 victory over the Rams, but their playoff seeding remains a complex equation heading into Week 18. Currently holding the No. 6 seed in the NFC,the Rams’ path to a higher position – or even maintaining their current spot – depends on their performance in the final two games and the outcomes of other key matchups. This article breaks down all the scenarios, providing you with a clear understanding of what lies ahead for your Rams.
Rams’ Week 17 Performance & Current Standing
Los Angeles demonstrated resilience in a hard-fought win, overcoming a near collapse to secure the victory. Despite this win,the Rams dropped to 11-5 and remain in sixth place within the NFC. They now face a critical Week 18 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.
A win coupled with a Seattle Seahawks loss to the San Francisco 49ers would propel the Rams to the no. 5 seed. Or else, they will remain at the No. 6 position for the playoffs.
The playoff Picture: Where Do the Rams Stand?
The Rams previously led the NFC West for a significant portion of the season. Tho, a Week 16 loss to the Seahawks shifted their focus to wild card positioning. Now, with both the seahawks and 49ers securing wins in Week 17, the Rams are focused on solidifying their playoff spot and perhaps improving their seeding.
Currently,the rams hold the No. 6 seed in the NFC playoff bracket. Importantly, their result on Monday Night Football against the atlanta Falcons won’t change this. A win would create a tie with the 49ers,but San Francisco owns the division record tiebreaker. Conversely,a loss won’t drop them below the No. 7 seed, currently held by the Green Bay Packers, even with a subsequent loss in Week 18.
Scenarios for Securing the No. 5 Seed
You have multiple paths to the No. 5 seed, offering a degree of control over your playoff destiny. Here’s a breakdown:
* Scenario 1: Dominate the Final Two. If the Rams win both remaining games – against the Falcons and the Cardinals – they will claim the No. 5 seed.This would mean a Wild Card round matchup on the road against the NFC South champion.
* Scenario 2: A Win & A Favor. Even a loss in Week 17 isn’t a complete setback. A win in Week 18 against the Cardinals, combined with a San Francisco 49ers loss in Week 18, would also secure the No. 5 seed for the rams.
What Happens if the Rams Lose?
If the Rams falter in Week 18, they will finish with the No. 6 seed. Similarly, a loss this week and a 49ers win in Week 18 will also result in the Rams remaining at the No. 6 seed.
No Tiebreaker Concerns in This Matchup
Fortunately, the Monday Night Football game against the Falcons doesn’t involve any tiebreaker implications that could impact the Rams’ playoff positioning. You can focus on the game itself without worrying about complex tiebreaker scenarios stemming from this specific matchup.
Looking Ahead: Rams’ Playoff Journey
the Rams are heading to the playoffs, and their final two games will determine their opponent and road to the Super Bowl. Keep a close eye on the 49ers’ results and prepare for a potentially exciting finish to the regular season. Your Rams are poised for a playoff run, and understanding these scenarios will allow you to follow their journey with confidence.
