Los Angeles Rams Face Must-Win Game Against Falcons to Keep NFC West Title Hopes Alive

The Los Angeles Rams host the Atlanta Falcons tonight in a critical Week 17 matchup. This game is vital for the Rams’ dwindling chances to win the NFC West division. Kickoff is set for 8:15 PM ET at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.

According to the NFL‘s official playoff picture, the Rams must win their final two games and receive specific help. Their path to the division crown is narrow but still mathematically possible entering tonight’s action.

The Rams’ Narrow Path to the NFC West Crown

The Rams’ situation became dire after a heartbreaking overtime loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 16. That defeat dropped them in the standings and handed control of the division to Seattle. Los Angeles now sits at 11-4, trailing the Seahawks in the divisional record tiebreaker.

To win the NFC West, the Rams must defeat the Falcons tonight and the Arizona Cardinals in Week 18. They also need the Chicago Bears to beat the San Francisco 49ers this weekend. Finally, they require the 49ers to then defeat the Seahawks in the final week.

If any one of these results does not occur, the Rams cannot win the division. Their focus tonight is solely on controlling what they can: beating a 6-9 Falcons team fighting for pride.

Matthew Stafford’s Career Season Anchors the Offense

Quarterback Matthew Stafford gives the Rams a fighting chance in any scenario. He has thrown 40 touchdown passes this season, just one shy of his career high. His connection with rookie sensation Puka Nacua and veteran Cooper Kupp has been explosive.

Stafford’s performance is central to the team’s 11-4 record. The Falcons’ defense ranks in the middle of the pack against the pass. Stafford will look to exploit any weaknesses to keep the Rams’ playoff momentum building.

Head Coach Sean McVay’s offensive scheme continues to produce at a high level. The unit must avoid the costly turnovers that plagued them in the loss to Seattle.

Seahawks Control Their Own Destiny

Meanwhile, the Seattle Seahawks can clinch the NFC West title tonight without even playing. If the Rams lose or tie against Atlanta, and if the San Francisco 49ers lose or tie against the Washington Commanders, the division belongs to Seattle.

This puts immense pressure on the Rams to handle their business. A loss would eliminate them from the division race entirely. It would also jeopardize their hold on a Wild Card spot, depending on other results.

The Rams are well aware of the stakes. The atmosphere at SoFi Stadium will be charged, with fans understanding this is effectively a playoff game.

The Rams’ quest for the NFC West title faces its most serious test tonight. Beating the Falcons is the essential first step in a complex playoff puzzle.

Info at your fingertips

What do the Rams need to happen to win the NFC West?

The Rams must win their final two games. They also need the Bears to beat the 49ers this week, and then need the 49ers to beat the Seahawks in Week 18. All three outcomes are required for LA to win the division.

Can the Rams still make the playoffs if they lose tonight?

Yes, but their chances would drop significantly. They could still secure a Wild Card spot, but they would need help from other teams losing and would no longer control their own playoff destiny.

What is Matthew Stafford’s touchdown stat this season?

Matthew Stafford has thrown 40 touchdown passes in the 2023 season. This puts him just one touchdown away from tying his personal career high of 41, set back in 2011.

Who can clinch the NFC West tonight?

The Seattle Seahawks can clinch the division title tonight. They need a Rams loss or tie combined with a 49ers loss or tie to secure the NFC West crown before their own game tomorrow.

Why is the Week 16 loss to Seattle so significant?

That loss gave Seattle the head-to-head tiebreaker over the Rams. It also dropped LA’s record within the division, which is the second tiebreaker, putting them at a severe disadvantage in the standings.