LOS ANGELES — In a thrilling matchup against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, the Los Angeles Rams found themselves in a pivotal moment during the fourth quarter. They held a narrow 38-35 lead with just under four minutes remaining, facing a fourth-and-5 situation at the Buffalo 35-yard line. Typically, head coach Sean McVay leans towards conservative decisions, which made it reasonable to expect either a lengthy field goal attempt or a punt. However, opting for a bold strategy, McVay kept his offense on the field. Quarterback Matthew Stafford expertly navigated his options and connected with Tutu Atwell for an 11-yard gain, a pivotal play that helped the Rams secure a dramatic 44-42 victory over the formidable Bills.
McVay explained his decision on Monday, saying, “We felt like we needed to make it a two-possession game. They were rolling. We talked about aggressively going to win that game. … It was just a reflection of the confidence in that group and what we felt like we needed to do to be able to win the game.” This show of trust in the Rams’ offense was well-founded, as the unit has struggled through much of the season, sitting at 18th in the league prior to the game. The good news for Los Angeles is that the team is mostly healthy now, with players like Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams regaining the form that warrants Pro Bowl consideration.
This resurgence could pose a significant challenge not just for the Bills, but for other teams in the NFC if the Rams (now 7-6) can maintain this high-scoring rate. The team has its sights set on sustaining this offensive energy as they prepare for a short week ahead, facing off against San Francisco on Thursday night. Nacua remarked on the game’s excitement, stating, “It was fantastic being able to feel like, man, this is what it feels like when the Rams are moving and connecting on all cylinders.”
The Rams demonstrated their offensive prowess by orchestrating six scoring drives that surpassed 65 yards, totaling an impressive 457 yards against Buffalo. Stafford registered a season-high 320 yards in passing, while Nacua shone with 162 receiving yards and two touchdowns, in addition to rushing for another touchdown on five carries.
Remarkably, this game marked the first time Stafford led the Rams to a 40-point outing. Thanks to this outstanding performance, Los Angeles finds themselves above the .500 mark for the first time this season, and they are now just one game behind the Seattle Seahawks (8-5) in the NFC West. After starting the season with a disheartening 1-4 record, the Rams are right in the mix for a playoff berth, trailing Washington (8-5) by only one game for the last wild-card spot.
“It’s cool to be able to play meaningful football in December,” McVay commented on the team’s current situation. He further reflected on his previous success, having taken the Rams to five playoff appearances in his first seven seasons, emphasizing the value of such opportunities in the NFL.
What stood out in the game was the Rams’ incredible efficiency on third downs, converting 11 of 15 attempts. This percentage is their best since 2001, and this does not even account for that critical fourth down conversion.
Nonetheless, the Rams’ defense showcased vulnerabilities, particularly against quarterback Josh Allen, with their defensive backs struggling significantly. Issues ranged from Darious Williams being exploited in coverage to Quentin Lake receiving a 34-yard pass-interference call in the game’s closing moments. After allowing 481 yards against Philadelphia just weeks before, the Rams again fell short, yielding 445 yards to the Bills, leaving them ranked 26th in total defense as of Monday.
On a positive note, the Rams’ offensive line performed admirably, allowing no sacks and only three hits on Stafford while facilitating 137 yards on the ground. This unit, now at full strength, has become an asset instead of a liability.
Conversely, edge rusher Byron Young struggled, committing two penalties on Buffalo’s opening drive that put the Rams in challenging positions. The team’s overall defensive discipline appeared lacking, which proved costly throughout the game.
Injury updates revealed that cornerback Cobie Durant has a bruised lung, leaving his availability for Thursday’s game in question. Durant has been a key starter throughout the season. Wide receiver Demarcus Robinson also sustained a shoulder sprain during the game but managed to continue playing.
One key statistic from the game is the singular instance in NFL history when both teams scored at least 40 points without committing any turnovers—something the Rams and Bills achieved together.
Looking ahead, the Rams prepare to face the 49ers, who haven’t appeared this vulnerable in the past four years. Although Kyle Shanahan has a history of success against McVay, the dynamics of this matchup shift with both squads’ star offensive players dealing with injuries this season. The Rams aim to build upon their recent successes as they pursue a playoff position.
