The Los Angeles Rams could not have hoped for a better ending to the regular season. Heading into December, Matthew Stafford and Co. needed some things to go their way to have a shot at a win-and-in game in Week 18. Not only did everything go their way, they managed to rest their starters.
With the Minnesota Vikings losing in the final regular season game of the year, Stafford’s team avoided another brush with the Detroit Lions, the team that eliminated them last season. Everything seems to be coming up Rams. However, that might not all be good news.
Why 14-3 Vikings Are A Trap Game
First, with everything going the Los Angeles Rams’ way as of late, it is easy to start thinking that the Rams are fated to win another Super Bowl. However, that mindset is exactly what could doom the team.
They might be getting to play against Sam Darnold after the quarterback suffered his worst loss of the season, but there’s reason to remain vigilant.
Also Read: Los Angeles Rams Podcast – Wildcard Game Preview
It is easy to assume Darnold has run out of juice and will revert back to the Jets version of himself, but until that is proven to close the year, he’s still 14-3 for a reason. And the biggest reason for that is Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and perhaps the most motivated and comfortable player to be in the stadium with the Vikings, Cam Akers. There is a ton of talent on this Vikings offense.
How Los Angeles Rams Can Avoid Playoff Stumble
Put simply, they need to treat this like a 14-3 team is lining up across from them and not make the focal point Sam Darnold. He might not have playoff experience, but Jefferson, Aaron Jones, Harrison Smith, and the rest of the veterans do have playoff experience.
As such, even if it isn’t the Kansas City Chiefs with their Super Bowl aura, it’s a team that won just one fewer game. The Los Angeles Rams need to prepare like they’re facing Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid, which means assuming nothing will be given to them.
Essentially, it falls on Sean McVay and Matthew Stafford to convey messaging to keep the team hungry and loose.
Remember, the team is effectively coming off a bye week while the Vikings are not, so there’s a greater risk of starting slow in the game. If this happens, that could doom them.
At no point, early or late, should McVay and Stafford consider taking their feet off the gas.