The Los Angeles Rams’ showdown with the Seattle Seahawks in Week 18 could have been a dramatic battle for the NFC West crown.
But fate had other plans, and the Seahawks instead find themselves missing the postseason for a second straight season, a drought they haven’t experienced in 15 years.
The Rams, having already clinched the division, can now take a more cautious approach, choosing to rest their key players against their rivals.
“Along with Matthew Stafford, the Rams will rest Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua, Kyren Williams, Alaric Jackson and Kevin Dotson against Seattle. Sean McVay already ruled out Rob Havenstein (shoulder) earlier in the week,” Sarah Barshop of ESPN wrote on X.
Along with Matthew Stafford, the Rams will rest Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua, Kyren Williams, Alaric Jackson and Kevin Dotson against Seattle. Sean McVay already ruled out Rob Havenstein (shoulder) earlier in the week.
— Sarah Barshop (@sarahbarshop) January 3, 2025
The Rams are merely playing for seeding, knowing they’ll host their first postseason game regardless.
The decision to sit starters isn’t without its critics, especially given the Rams’ history with this strategy.
Last season, they struggled against the Detroit Lions in a first-round playoff loss, failing to convert any of their three red-zone opportunities.
The 2017 season tells a similar tale. After resting starters in Week 17, they lost to the Atlanta Falcons in the wild-card round.
However, there’s logic behind McVay’s decision. An injury to Stafford or Nacua in a non-consequential game could derail their chances at a playoff run.
Moreover, having played straight through since a Week 6 bye, the Rams’ starters have earned a break before the postseason grind begins.
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