Rams aim for playoffs, focus on present amid NFC contention, says McVay, Stafford

The Los Angeles Rams are focused on the present as they navigate the playoff race, emphasizing a game-by-game mentality despite their strong record and potential for postseason success.

Why it matters: The Rams approach under head coach Sean McVay is not just about securing the top seed but rather maintaining a mindset geared toward immediate performance.
McVay's coaching philosophy supports sustained focus, which could be crucial in high-pressure games leading up to the playoffs.

What’s new: Currently holding a 9-3 record, the Rams are in contention for the No. 1 seed in the NFC, sitting behind the Chicago Bears, who lead with a better conference record.

  • The Rams have a 30% chance of clinching the top seed, while their overall playoff chances are at an impressive 92.8%.
  • This position is critical as they prepare for upcoming games against divisional rivals like the Arizona Cardinals.

By the numbers: The Rams current standing reflects a strong season but also reveals vulnerabilities stemming from recent performances.

  • Their conference record sits at 4-3, contrasted with the Bears’ 6-2, highlighting the importance of each remaining game.
  • A recent loss to the Carolina Panthers in Week 13 has raised questions about their consistency heading into the final stretch of the season.

Yes, but: While the Rams boast a solid playoff probability, the dynamics within the NFC West remain competitive, particularly with the Seattle Seahawks also at 9-3.

  • The Rams hold the tiebreaker over the Seahawks due to their victory in Week 11, yet continued vigilance is necessary to maintain their playoff positioning.

What to watch: As the Rams move forward, the focus will remain on executing their offensive strategy effectively.
Matthew Stafford, the team's quarterback, emphasizes the importance of staying "laser-focused on the game at hand," which aligns with McVay's philosophy of prioritizing immediate objectives over long-term predictions.

The bottom line: With the playoffs looming, the Rams must harness their current momentum and commitment to present-focused play to secure their desired postseason outcome.
Success in the upcoming games will ultimately determine their seeding and readiness for a deeper playoff run, reinforcing the significance of McVay's game-by-game approach.

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