Inglewood, California — The Los Angeles Rams faced a tough challenge during the second half of their game against the Arizona Cardinals, struggling to generate offensive momentum while relying on their defense to hold on to a narrow lead. As the game drew to a close, the Rams found themselves pressed into their own end zone, with Arizona looking to capitalize on any mistake.
Fortunately for the Rams, cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon made a remarkable diving interception on a pass that had been deflected, securing their 13-9 victory and keeping them in contention for another NFC West title. This tight win marked their fifth consecutive victory, with Puka Nacua putting up 129 receiving yards and Kyren Williams scoring the team’s only touchdown.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford reflected on the team’s performance, admitting they weren’t at their best. “We didn’t do a whole lot great, to be honest with you,” Stafford said, adding that despite their struggles with both running and throwing the ball, they managed to secure the win with enough points. As the Rams prepare to host the Seattle Seahawks in their final game of the regular season, they are close to clinching a division title.
The Rams could become champions of the NFC West if teams like the Bills, Browns, Vikings, Commanders, and 49ers secure at least three wins combined in their upcoming games. This would allow Los Angeles to clinch based on their strength of schedule, regardless of the outcome against Seattle.
Should those teams fall short in their wins, the Seahawks must beat the Rams and get assistance from other teams to claim the division, while the Rams aim for their sixth playoff berth in eight seasons under head coach Sean McVay. The Rams managed to prevent a high-stakes clash with the Seahawks by overcoming the Cardinals, who had been eliminated from playoff contention but put forth an impressive defensive effort.
Arizona quarterback Kyler Murray racked up 321 passing yards, but he faced struggles that included throwing two late interceptions. The Cardinals only managed to score three points on drives deep into Rams territory during the fourth quarter. As time dwindled, Murray led Arizona to the Los Angeles 5-yard line. However, a blitz from the Rams on first down caused a deflected pass that Witherspoon intercepted. The call was confirmed by video review despite the ball touching the ground while making contact with his hands.
Witherspoon reflected on the play, indicating the uncertainty that comes with such moments. “Just the way the NFL works, you never really know, honestly,” he commented. Meanwhile, tight end Trey McBride had a commendable performance for the Cardinals, marking his first touchdown catch of the season and reaching 100 receptions.
Arizona’s coach, Jonathan Gannon, noted the disappointment of coming so close to victory. “The ball didn’t bounce our way,” he said, emphasizing their potential when playing well despite the final outcome. Williams opened the scoring in the game with his 14th rushing touchdown of the season shortly before halftime.
The Cardinals cut the deficit to 10-9 with a touchdown catch from McBride, who marked his historic 98th reception as a tight end. A field goal from Chad Ryland made it clear that Arizona was in contention early in the fourth quarter, but Rams rookie Joshua Karty’s field goal extended their lead.
After another pass attempt from Murray resulted in a fourth-down interception by rookie Kam Kinchens, the Rams’ offense failed to capitalize fully. Murray expressed his frustrations with the game’s outcome, acknowledging how confident he felt about their chances to secure the win.
In a notable moment during the third quarter, Rams linebacker Michael Hoecht blocked Arizona’s extra-point attempt, adding to his remarkable season with three blocked kicks, which ties for the second-most in Rams history.
Injury updates were released, indicating that Cardinals cornerback Garrett Williams was being assessed for a concussion, while running back James Conner played despite a knee issue but struggled to make an impact. For the Rams, right tackle Rob Havenstein missed the game due to a shoulder injury, and his absence was felt as backup Joe Noteboom incurred multiple holding penalties.
Looking ahead, the Rams look to continue their winning streak against the Seahawks, while the Cardinals conclude their season at home against the 49ers.
