The Arizona Cardinals playoff hopes ended last week after a loss to the Panthers but now they’ll try to upend their divisional foes chances of winning the NFC West. The Rams control their own destiny, win out their remaining two games, and clinch a postseason berth. But first, LA has to get by Arizona.
Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals went into Carolina knowing they had to win to keep their season alive. Instead, they fell 36-30 in overtime, officially ending their playoff aspirations. A poor start put Arizona in a 20-3 hole but ultimately fell short against the Panthers. Kyler Murray threw for 202 yards and a touchdown but really struggled against the pass rush. James Connor was a beast running for 117 yards on 15 carries with a touchdown and also had four receptions for 49 yards. But the Cards run defense was terrible giving up 243 yards and three rushing touchdowns. Now they have to face Kyren Williams, who is No. 3 in the NFL with 1,243 rushing yards and has 13 rushing touchdowns.
Los Angeles Rams
The Rams just keep on winning as they extended their win streak to four games with a road victory against the Jets. Kyren Williams dominated on the ground with 122 rushing yards and a touchdown on 23 carries, while Puka Nacua recorded eight catches for 56 yards. After a 1-4 start, this team looked like it was time to dismantle and start over. But Matthew Stafford has led this team to an 8-2 run over the last ten games and two more wins clinches a playoff spot. In the last two games, the Rams defense has created 3 turnovers, four sacks and given up a total of 15 points. They are peaking at the right time of the season.
Keys to the Game/Prop Plays
Kyler Murray: OVER Rushing Yards
Kyler Murray has to be precise and efficient against this defense. The good thing for him is he can make things happen with his legs. He’s rushed for over 45 yards seven times this season including 63 yards on 8 carries last week. And back in Week 2, Murray ran for 59 yards on just five carries against the Rams.
Kyren Williams: OVER Rushing Attempts
Kyren Williams has been a workhorse of late averaging 105 yards and 24 carries a game over the last four weeks. He’s also scored four touchdowns in that stretch. As Williams goes, the Rams go. After seeing how the Cards run unit was exposed last week, Williams will get every opportunity to do the same. That should also open up the passing game, specifically for Puka Nacua. He’s had 27 receptions in the last 3 games and has averaged 105 yards in that span.
Props have yet to be released at time of writing, but check website for latest odds
Prediction: Rams -6
Just a few weeks ago the Cards were the betting favorites to win the NFC West. But they’ve lost four of five and are playing for next year now. The Rams have a balanced attack and are motivated to make the playoffs. If the Seahawks lose Thursday night, LA could clinch with a win. Rams keep rolling and clip the Cardinals at home.
Game Betting Odds
Cardinals +6
Rams -6
Total: 48.5
Moneyline: Cardinals +220, Rams -270
Recent Betting Trends
Arizona are 6-3 ATS in their last 9 games
Arizona are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games
Arizona are 3-12-1 ATS in their last 16 games against LA Rams
LA Rams are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games
LA Rams are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games
LA Rams are 8-3 SU in their last 11 games at home
