Rams Playoff Chances
The Rams control their own destiny, but it's not quite that easy.
Los Angeles has to beat the Cardinals on Sunday without starting quarterback Jared Goff, who underwent thumb surgery this week.
With a win far from guaranteed, that 80% chance at the playoffs may seem confusing. But the Rams are also in if the Bears lose to the Packers. Even if Rams fans don't feel great with John Wolford under center, they have to feel OK about Aaron Rodgers against Mitch Trubisky.
Rams Odds vs. Cardinals
Wolford spent four years at Wake Forest, finishing with more interceptions than touchdowns in each of his first three seasons. His senior year was much better, throwing for 3,192 yards with 29 touchdowns to only six interceptions.
He has never taken a snap in an NFL game.
In addition, Wolford will likely be without receiver Cooper Kupp, who was placed on the COVID list this week.
It's probably no surprise 63% of bets and 89% of money is coming in on the Cardinals as of Thursday (track real-time public betting data here).
Our NFL PRO Projections make the Rams 1.5-point underdogs, so this line has a 6.5% edge at +3.
How the Rams Got Here
The Rams feel a bit under the radar for a team that clinched the over on its 8.5 win total and two years removed from a Super Bowl appearance.
Some of that is probably due to Goff's inconsistencies: He has six games with more than 300 yards passing, but seven with fewer than 250. He has 20 touchdowns to 13 interceptions.
A 9-4 record had Los Angeles in the NFC West conversation with Seattle, but back-to-back losses to the Jets and Seahawks has the Rams fighting for a final spot.
If the Rams do fall short, look no further than that loss to the Jets — the first win of the year for New York after entering that week 0-13.
Rams Super Bowl Odds
Our model gives the Rams a 2.0% shot at winning the Super Bowl, ahead of just the Cardinals, Giants, Cowboys and Bears among teams not yet eliminated in the NFC.
