The Los Angeles Rams got back on track with a 28-22 win over the New England Patriots and now face one of their toughest tests of the season when they host the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 12.
The Rams enter the matchup only one game behind the Arizona Cardinals for first place in the NFC West. A win would put L.A. over .500 for the first time this season and go a long way toward their playoff hopes.
Fortunately for the Rams, they will be as close to full strength as possible in their Sunday Night Football game against the Eagles.
The team didn’t sustain any new injuries last week and there was some optimism that starting right tackle Rob Havenstein, who missed the last two games due to an ankle issue, would be able to return. That is unlikely to be the case though, so others will need to continue to step up in his absence.
The Rams will need all the help they can get against an Eagles team that has won six consecutive games and owns the second-best record in the NFC at 8-2.
Philadelphia has been clicking on all cylinders as of late behind their No. 1 ranked rushing attack that is led by Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts.
They average more than 181 yards on the ground per game, which will be a challenge for a Rams defense that ranks 18th in opponent rushing yards.
The Rams are just 1-7 in their last eight games against the Eagles, but Matthew Stafford is 4-2 in his career when facing Philadelphia.
Rams’ keys to victory
Can Matthew Stafford keep it going?
Stafford enjoyed his best game of the season against the Patriots when he threw for 295 yards and four touchdowns. The 16-year veteran surpassed Eli Manning for 10th on the all-time NFL career passing touchdowns list with 370.
The Eagles defense has allowed the fewest yards per game of any team this season, and they are particularly stingy against the pass.
However, the Eagles struggle to generate pressure, and Stafford has shown time and time again that he will make perfect throws if the offensive line gives him enough time.
Rams’ pass rush vs. Eagles’ offensive line
The Rams’ pass rush has been solid this season, largely due to the contributions of rookies Jared Verse and Braden Fiske.
The dynamic duo will face their biggest test yet against an Eagles offensive line that ranks in the top five in most categories.
If the Rams are able to get consistent pressure on Hurts, they will have an excellent chance to come out of SoFi Stadium with an upset win over the Eagles.
