LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Rams are no strangers to navigating the challenges of a short week during the playoffs, even if some players may not recall previous experiences. Head coach Sean McVay opted for no practice on Wednesday, leading up to their NFC divisional round matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles following a decisive 27-9 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Arizona last Monday.
This strategy mirrors the one employed by the Rams during the 2021 postseason, where they transitioned from a Monday night home win against the Arizona Cardinals to a road game in Tampa Bay, ultimately culminating in a Super Bowl victory. “I was told we would copy and paste some of that stuff,” wide receiver Cooper Kupp shared on Thursday. “I didn’t even remember it, but I thought it was interesting to see how we managed things then.” Kupp expressed his support for the approach, stating, “It worked, so I’m good with it.”
In an effort to alleviate some of the physical strain on his players, McVay revisited the past strategy. By taking Wednesday as a rest day, the Rams gave their players the opportunity to recover with a weightlifting session instead of a full practice, preparing them mentally and physically for the upcoming game in Philadelphia.
Consequently, the team had to fit two days of practice into Thursday’s session, and McVay was pleased with the outcome. “They got refreshed and recharged. I think our guys know how to manage short weeks,” he remarked. “Today, they handled it well.” This mindful approach also benefited the coaching staff, as it allowed them to reduce mental stress by not rushing into practice less than 48 hours following the wild-card round.
The Rams, who hold an 11-7 record, have already managed two quick turnarounds this season, securing victories against both Minnesota on October 24 and San Francisco on December 12. This week differs, however, not only due to the high stakes of a win-or-go-home scenario but also because of the ongoing repercussions from the wildfires that have affected the Los Angeles area, resulting in at least 25 fatalities and the destruction of thousands of buildings.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford acknowledged the uncertainties surrounding the team’s homecoming from Arizona, mentioning that their traveling entourage included both families and pets. “Luckily, we got back here, and everybody’s doing everything they can to make it as functional of a city as we possibly can,” Stafford commented. “They’re doing a great job, and then our focus quickly shifts back to football.”
Although there are still unresolved issues — with McVay noting a power outage at his home on Thursday — the Rams are concentrating fully on their upcoming game against the Eagles, who handed them a 37-20 defeat on November 24. This loss was significant as it was the Rams’ last game at full strength, with key players like Stafford and Kupp sidelined for the regular-season finale against Seattle.
With so much at stake, Kupp is confident that the Rams are prepared for their Sunday clash. “We don’t have anything else guaranteed past that,” he emphasized. “There’s a finality to it that brings a good focus and good concentration.”
In terms of player availability, cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon (thigh) and defensive tackle Bobby Brown III (shoulder) did not practice on Thursday, while tight end Tyler Higbee (chest contusion) was limited. However, McVay remains optimistic that all three will be ready for the game. Additionally, linebacker Troy Reeder (hamstring) and defensive end Larrell Murchison (foot) were activated to return from injured reserve on Thursday, with Reeder having started the first six games of the season. Murchison has yet to see action this season due to injuries suffered during the preseason and practice.
