The Los Angeles Rams are set to face off against the Arizona Cardinals this Sunday in a crucial NFC West battle. Both teams enter the game with a record of 0-1. The Rams experienced a heartbreaking overtime loss to the Lions, while the Cardinals squandered a two-touchdown lead in Buffalo, resulting in a defeat against the Bills. Kickoff is slated for 4:05 PM EST.
Rams Aim for Redemption in Arizona
The Los Angeles Rams had a promising opportunity to secure a road victory last Sunday but ultimately fell short, losing 26-20 in a nail-biter against the Lions. After trailing by two touchdowns in the third quarter, the Rams mounted a comeback and briefly held a three-point lead in the fourth. However, the Lions equalized with a late field goal, then clinched the win with a touchdown in overtime.
“I’m really proud of this group,” said Rams head coach Sean McVay. “We faced many challenges with injuries, and several players stepped up, but we just came up short.”
Quarterback Matthew Stafford had a solid outing, completing 34 of 49 passes for 317 yards and a touchdown, though he did throw an interception. Wide receiver Cooper Kupp made a significant impact, recording a career-high 14 receptions for 110 yards. However, fellow receiver Puka Nacua exited the game with a knee injury before halftime. The Rams finished with 387 total yards, primarily through the air, and managed 25 first downs while converting 5 of 12 third downs.
Defensively, the Rams faced challenges, allowing 21 first downs and 363 total yards to the Lions, including 163 rushing yards at an average of 5.3 yards per carry. Despite two sacks and an interception from John Johnson III, the defense struggled against the run.
As they prepare for their encounter with the Cardinals, the Rams hold a dominant record in recent matchups, winning 13 of the last 15 games against Arizona. Last season, they ranked seventh in the league for total offense, leaning heavily on a strong running game, particularly in the latter half of the season. This week, they are expected to feature running back Kyren Williams more prominently, especially after the defense’s difficulties against the run. Key injuries for the Rams include Nacua being ruled out, while tight end Davis Allen, right guard Kevin Dotson, and cornerback Cobie Durant are doubtful. Offensive lineman Rob Havenstein, safety Quentin Lake, and linebacker Christian Rozeboom are questionable for the game.
Cardinals Seek to Regain Momentum
The Arizona Cardinals had a promising start to their 2024 season but faltered against the Buffalo Bills, losing 34-28 after leading 17-3 at one point. The Cardinals established a strong offensive presence early on and held the Bills in check defensively. However, the tide turned quickly after the Bills scored at the end of the first half and continued their momentum into the second half.
“We’ve got to be better. We were up 17-3 and lost the game,” emphasized head coach Jonathan Gannon. “We need to maintain our scoring, especially when we have a lead.”
Quarterback Kyler Murray returned to action after recovering from a torn ACL, completing 21 of 31 passes for 162 yards and a touchdown, along with 57 rushing yards on five attempts. However, a critical fumble in the third quarter shifted the game’s momentum to the Bills. The Cardinals amassed 18 first downs and 270 total yards, but they managed only a field goal after halftime, with their remaining points coming from a kick return.
Defensively, the Cardinals started strong but struggled as the game progressed, allowing 322 total yards to the Bills, who converted four of six red-zone opportunities. The Cardinals did force a fumble and recorded two sacks, alongside five tackles for loss.
As they prepare to face the Rams, the Cardinals hope to improve their offensive performance. Last season, they finished 19th in total offense, largely due to Murray’s absence for part of the season. Rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. was quiet in the opener, logging only one catch on three targets, but he is expected to be more involved this week. On the defensive side, the Cardinals ranked 25th overall and will need to step up against the Rams’ rushing attack, especially since they struggled against the run last season.
Key injuries for the Cardinals include cornerback Max Melton and wide receiver Xavier Weaver, both listed as questionable for Sunday’s game.
Betting Insights for Rams vs. Cardinals
The Rams face challenges with their offensive line and the absence of Nacua, yet their historical dominance over the Cardinals may play a crucial role in this matchup. The Cardinals ranked last in the NFL for run defense last season, a weakness the Rams could exploit. While the Cardinals built an early lead against the Bills, their inability to maintain it showcased vulnerabilities in their defense. The Rams will likely emphasize the run game this week, as running back Kyren Williams had notable success against the Cardinals last year, rushing for 143 yards and scoring two touchdowns. With a focus on protecting Stafford, the Rams are expected to establish the run early on. The Cardinals’ offense, while starting strong, faded in the second half against the Bills, and Murray’s limited rushing attempts may hinder their effectiveness. The Rams’ strategy of prioritizing the ground game could lead to continued success against a Cardinals defense that has struggled to stop the run.
