It’s a battle between two of the hotter teams in the second half of the season as the Eagles host the Rams in the Divisional Round. Philadelphia has been on a tear winning 13 of the last 14 games while Los Angeles has won 10 of 13, with one of those losses in Week 18 when the Rams rested their starters. Which team continues its march in the postseason? Let’s break it down for Sunday’s game.
Why Philadelphia can Win/Cover
Plain and simple, give the ball to Saquon Barkley. He exploded for 255 yard rushing yards and 302 scrimmage yards in a win vs the Rams this season. He’s run for 100-yards or more 12 times this season, the Eagles have won 11 of those games. Barkley was busy last week vs the Packers 119 yards on 25 carries. Philadelphia is No. 2 on the ground while the Rams defense is 26th allowing 4.6 YPC. Jalen Hurts returned from missing a couple of games and wasn’t overly efficient but did enough to win. He’ll have to play much better against a rejuvenated Rams defense that recorded 9 sacks vs the Vikings. Philadelphia is 6-1-1 ATS at home in the last 8 games against Los Angeles.
Why Los Angeles can Win/Cover
The Rams are playing for the city of L.A. as wildfires are ravaging through the region. They showed resilience in their win over the Vikings with the defense hammering Sam Darnold with nine sacks and forcing two turnovers, including a pick-six. Sean McVay and his squad lost to the Eagles in Week 12 but reeled off six of its last seven games, the only loss coming against Seattle when LA rested starters. Matthew Stafford has thrown just one interception in the last two months and the defense has been impressive. If they can hold Barkley in check, they have a shot. The Rams only allow touchdowns on 50% of red-zone possessions, fifth in the NFL. And this unit hasn’t allowed more than 9 points in the last four victories.
Best Bet: Under 43.5
This number opened as high as 45.5 at some sportsbooks but the sharps quickly ate that up. The offenses on both sides follow the same blueprint; run the ball, extend drives and keep the clock moving. Philadelphia racked up 314 yards on the Rams in Week 12, with Saquon Barkley running for 255. But L.A. has vastly improved the defense allowing 9 or less points in the last four wins while the Eagles have given up a combined 30 points in the last three wins.
Player Prop Plays Saquon Barkley: OVER 107.5 Rushing Yards
How can you not take this with the way Saquon Barkley has been playing. In seven of his last 8, Barkley has gone over 107 yards including 255 yards against the Rams back in Week 12. He’s averaging 28 carries in his last three games and should get the ball often against this run defense.
Cooper Kupp: UNDER 4.5 Receptions
Once one of the most productive receivers in the league but now Cooper Kupp is turning into more of a decoy for the Rams. In the last four games, Kupp has a total of four receptions and targeted just ten times. He did have 8 catches vs the Eagles in Week 12 but since then, has been quiet. And a game that should be all about the ground attack, Kupp should easily go under with receptions.
Game Betting Odds
Los Angeles Rams +5.5
Philadelphia Eagles -5.5
Total: 43.5
Moneyline: Rams +225, Eagles -265
Recent Betting Trends
LA is 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games against Philadelphia
LA Rams are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games
The Eagles are 11-1 in their last 12 games as a favorite
