After a crushing 24-19 defeat to the Green Bay Packers, the Los Angeles Rams dropped to 1-4. Questions were being asked about the futures of star players such as wide receiver Cooper Kupp and the season looked lost. With a dismal record in a tough NFC West, the Rams were beginning to consider punting on the season.
With everything to play for, the Rams defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 20-15. The offense was fueled by running back Kyren Williams, who accounted for 76 yards and two touchdowns on the day. With some resemblance of a pulse, the Rams asked for a second-round pick in exchange for Kupp. This, along with his hefty cap hit led to him remaining on the Rams. Teams interested in Kupp’s services such as the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills decided to look elsewhere for receivers.
On a short week, the Rams faced the Minnesota Vikings at home. Led by quarterback Sam Darnold, the Vikings had gotten off to a 5-0 start. However, the team lost to the Detroit Lions on a late field goal and were looking to return to their winning ways. Fortunately for the Rams, the return of both Kupp and second year wide receiver Puka Nacua to the lineup heavily boosted the offense. Quarterback Matthew Stafford had one of his best days of the season, throwing for 234 yards to go along with four touchdowns and one interception. This, paired with a valiant effort from the team’s pass rush gave them a 30-20 victory over the Vikings.
With two consecutive wins, the Rams are now half a game behind first place in the NFC West with a record of 3-4. First place is currently a three-way tie as the Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, and Seattle Seahawks all have records of 4-4. With a chance to win the division very much alive, the Rams will now be gearing up for one more playoff push.
