Rams Notebook: Ugly Win Keeps L.A. Playoff Hopes Alive
Well, that was fun (or miserable, depending on your perspective).
The Los Angeles Rams managed to hold on for a 26-25 win over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on Sunday afternoon, moving even closer to clinching a spot in the NFC playoffs. Should the Seattle Seahawks lose on Sunday to the Pittsburgh Steelers, that berth would be clinched.
It wasn't the prettiest of wins for Los Angeles, but it counts the same in the record books, and it can now shift its attention to a big date with the San Francisco 49ers next week.
Here are some key observations from the Rams' win over the Giants on Sunday.
Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA TODAY NETWORK
1. Sunday wasn't Matthew Stafford's best game.
Rams QB Matthew Stafford went 24-of-34 through the air for 317 yards against the Giants, and that seems pretty stellar on the surface. He did, however, throw two interceptions paired with his one touchdown pass, and those almost came back to bite for Los Angeles later in the game. It didn't help that he was also sacked four times for a loss of 31 yards, but Stafford will probably not have great memories of this game moving forward.
Still, it speaks volumes that this was by far his worst game of December, and it still resulted in a Rams win. That should provide some encouragement.
2. Puka Nacua continues to be legit at the wide receiver position.
One play from Nacua's 118-yard day was his 80-yard reception that set up a quick rushing score from Kyren Williams in the third quarter. His hands are sure, but his ability to put up yards after the catch is unreal at this stage of his NFL career, and he continues to elude defenders with the best wideouts in the league. Sunday just served as another reminder of that fact.
3. Kicking woes continue (although they will be somewhat overshadowed).
Rams kicker Lucas Havrisik did not attempt a field goal on Sunday, but he missed two extra points that would have proven valuable down the stretch, especially as the Giants drove to potentially win the game in the fourth quarter. Still, most spectators will probably remember Giants kicker Mason Crosby's struggles since the game came down to his foot in the end, and he also missed an extra point on the day.
4. The NFL is a game of inches, but this win was huge for L.A.
It can't be overstated how big this win was for the Rams. There is a real chance that Los Angeles punches its ticket to the playoffs with a Seahawks loss later today, and it continues to show how far this team has progressed since its 3-6 start to the season. Now, a bout with the 49ers awaits next week.
