The Los Angeles Rams did their job in Week 17 in beating the Arizona Cardinals, and then with some help from teams around the league, they clinched the NFC West, punching their ticket to the NFL Playoffs.
Whenever a team clinches with a game to play, the conversation of whether or not to play starters flares up. There is the risk of injury if the starters play, but there is also the risk of rust heading into the playoffs if they do not.
There is also the factor of seeding. For teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, they have the Number 1 seed in the AFC locked up, they cannot move up or down.
The Los Angeles Rams have a little bit of a different scenario.
Sean McVay Says The Los Angeles Rams Starters “Probably” Will Not Play In Finale
When speaking with reporters on Tuesday, head coach Sean McVay said that resting key starters is “probably the direction we’ll go.”
He did not divulge further on what “key” starters would get rest, but you have to assume it would include Matthew Stafford, Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua, Rob Havenstein, and Kyren Williams.
The defense will be interesting because there is so much youth across the board that the reps will still be valuable, but CB Darious Williams, in particular, will probably see the final game as a rest day.
This will certainly be an interesting decision because while the Rams have locked up the division, their seeding and playoff opponent are still fluid.
Win and they would secure the 3-seed. With a loss and a Tampa Bay win, they would fall to the 4-seed.
Also Read: Matthew Stafford’s Play Will Hinder Los Angeles Rams Playoff Chances
Remaining in the 3 spot would most likely feature a matchup with the Washington Commanders. If the Rams fall to the 4-seed, they will most likely play either the Detroit Lions or Minnesota Vikings.
I think we all know which matchup would be better.
Sean McVay started the trend of not playing starters in the Preseason, so we know he trusts their process throughout the week to keep the team ready and prepared.
Will this be the right decision?