Ahkello Witherspoon’s last-minute interception secured a narrow 13-9 victory for the Los Angeles Rams against the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday night, preserving their lead in the competitive NFC West. With just 37 seconds left on the clock, Witherspoon made a spectacular diving catch on a deflected pass in the end zone, showcasing his defensive prowess at a critical moment.
Puka Nacua emerged as a key player for the Rams, racking up 129 receiving yards, while Kyren Williams contributed the only touchdown of the game. The Rams, now sitting at 10-6, faced a challenging offensive game but managed to grind out their fifth consecutive win, demonstrating their resilience in high-pressure situations.
Looking ahead, the Rams are set to host the Seattle Seahawks (9-7) in their regular-season finale. They could clinch coach Sean McVay’s fourth division title before the game if certain teams achieve the necessary wins over the next few days.
If the Buffalo Bills, Cleveland Browns, Minnesota Vikings, Washington Commanders, and San Francisco 49ers collectively secure three wins or two wins and a tie, the Rams will become NFC West champions based on their strength of schedule, regardless of the outcome against Seattle.
Even without that assistance, the Rams remain in control of their division. The Seahawks need to defeat the Rams and receive help from other teams to claim the West, while the Rams aim for their sixth playoff berth in eight seasons under McVay.
The Rams managed to avoid a winner-take-all showdown with Seattle by holding off a determined Cardinals team, which played exceptionally well defensively despite being eliminated from playoff contention just a week prior.
Arizona’s Kyler Murray threw for 321 yards but struggled with two late interceptions, leading to missed opportunities as the Cardinals only scored three points on three drives into Rams territory during the fourth quarter.
In a tense final minute, Arizona advanced to the Rams’ 5-yard line. However, Witherspoon’s game-saving interception came after Murray’s pass deflected off tight end Trey McBride’s helmet, a moment that was confirmed by video review.
Matthew Stafford, who had 189 passing yards, effectively managed the clock to secure the Rams’ ninth win in their last eleven games since the bye week.
McBride marked a milestone with his 100th reception and scored his first touchdown of the season for Arizona, which has now lost five of its last six games. He finished the night with 12 catches for 123 yards, while Marvin Harrison Jr. added 96 receiving yards.
Williams opened the scoring with his 14th rushing touchdown of the season just before halftime, capping off the Rams’ most effective drive of the night.
The Cardinals finally found the end zone midway through the third quarter with a 1-yard catch by McBride, making him the tenth tight end in NFL history to achieve 100 receptions in a single season.
Chad Ryland’s short field goal brought Arizona within one point early in the fourth quarter after a strong drive. Rams rookie Joshua Karty responded with a field goal of his own to extend the Rams’ lead.
Arizona advanced to the Rams’ 40-yard line but stalled, leading to a critical interception by rookie Kam Kinchens. However, Kinchens’ return cost the Rams valuable field position, resulting in a quick punt back to Arizona.
In an impressive defensive play, Michael Hoecht blocked Arizona’s extra-point attempt, solidifying his place as the NFL leader in blocked kicks this season, with three to his name, marking the second-most in Rams history.
Cardinals cornerback Garrett Williams was evaluated for a concussion during the game, while running back James Conner played through a knee injury but was limited to just four carries.
Rams right tackle Rob Havenstein missed the game due to a shoulder injury sustained in practice, marking his fifth absence of the season.
With this victory, the Rams have now won three in a row and hold a strong record against Seattle, winning 11 of their last 15 matchups. The Cardinals will conclude their season at home against the San Francisco 49ers.
