The Los Angeles Rams host the Arizona Cardinals in the 2020 NFL season finale needing a win if they are going to secure a spot in the playoffs.
With the Cardinals still on the postseason bubble, they would love nothing more than to play spoiler to their NFC West rival by taking their spot.
Rams Offense Vs. Cardinals Defense
The Rams will be debuting John Wolford under center for his first career start with quarterback Jared Goff sidelined due to a thumb injury. The team is also optimistic about having Cam Akers return to the backfield after nursing an ankle injury over the past week.
The porous Cardinals defense is coming off another underwhelming performance again the San Francisco 49ers. They are also holding out hope that this group will be at full strength with safety Budda Baker still questionable to play with a neck injury.
Rams Defense Vs. Cardinals Offense
The Rams defense will have their work cut out trying to contain all the firepower on the Cardinals. This task proved even more daunting with outside linebacker Leonard Floyd ending on the injury report with an abdomen injury. He is planning to play, although L.A. will be without defensive lineman Michael Brockers.
Arizona could also be without a few key pieces on offense. Running back Chase Edmonds and wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald are listed as questionable after not practicing all week. Tight ends Darrell Daniels and Maxx Williams are also questionable to play, while wide receiver Christian Kirk is out.
Keys To Victory
Ground And Pound
Goff enjoyed a solid outing versus the Cardinals in Week 13 by completing 37-of-47 passes for 351 yards and a touchdown. Of course, it is far-fetched that Wolford will put up the same numbers in his first taste of NFL action.
The onus will fall on the run game to help take the pressure off under center. Even though Akers may have taken over workhorse duties last time, his injury and that of Darrell Henderson’s could leave head coach Sean McVay with limited options.
Keep Murray In The Pocket
Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray is more than capable of making any throw while in the pocket. Regardless, he is still at his best when he is on the run looking to make a throw or gain extra yardage.
The Rams did a stellar job of containment thanks to the efforts of defensive tackle Aaron Donald and linebacker Justin Hollins. They will need their pass rush to kick things up a notch, especially if Floyd is unable to play.
How to Watch
Time: 1:25 p.m. PT
Location: SoFi Stadium
TV: CBS
