NFC Championship Showdown: Rams vs. Seahawks Preview

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From NFL Pro Football Today

Rams vs. Seahawks: NFC Championship Showdown

In the upcoming NFC championship game, the Los Angeles Rams are set to face off against the Seattle Seahawks. These two teams, deemed the best in the NFC, are meeting for the third time this season during Sunday Night Football in Seattle. The line has been set consistently at 2.5 all week, though there’s speculation it might rise to a flat 3 by kickoff. In their previous meetings, the Rams, despite being favored, failed to cover the spread in both games. They narrowly won the first encounter with a dramatic 60-yard field goal and triumphed in the second game during overtime thanks to a comeback led by Sam Darnold.

Looking at the performance of the Rams throughout the season, they've stood strong against formidable defenses like those of Carolina and the Bears. As they prepare to face Seattle, the strategy likely involves leveraging their quarterback's skills to dominate the game, potentially forcing Darnold to play from behind. The Rams aren’t showing any signs of complacency; their game plan is to aggressively challenge Seattle's defense.

Regarding the game's total points, opinions differ. While some favor betting on a high-scoring game, others predict it will stay under 46.5, speculating that the Rams' heavy road game schedule might impact their performance. Los Angeles, having just played three consecutive road games, faces a tough challenge, similar to the one Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers overcame on their way to a Super Bowl victory.

The Seahawks, on the other hand, may have a slightly advantageous position, coming off a bye, with more time to rest and prepare. Yet, concerns about Sam Darnold's health persist as he has seen limited practice due to an injury. His ability to perform under the pressure of a heavy pass rush is a critical factor for Seattle. This game is crucial, not just for its immediate outcome but for both teams' strategies as they navigate the pressures of playoff football.