The Rams opened up as 7-point favorites and it has stuck since. Arizona is coming off a big win over the Jaguars in Week 12, and seems to have new life with Blaine Gabbert at the QB spot. With a 5-6 record overall, the Cardinals aren’t quote out of the running for a playoff berth, though it will be a challenge to make the postseason if they don’t take this game, with just five games remaining in total.
The Los Angeles Rams needed a statement game after their horrible loss against the Minnesota Vikings and did so with beating the New Orleans Saints who were riding a eight game winning streak heading into that matchup. With news breaking out that New Orleans will be without two of their top corners, Sean McVay and the powerful offense did not hold back throwing the ball often and alot.
Quarterback Jared Goff and rookie wide receiver would have an amazing day as they both helped the Rams secure their eighth win of the season. Goff outplayed and outperformed veteran Drew Brees as the 2nd year starter finished with 354 passing yards, two touchdowns and one interception which deflected off the hands of wide receiver Sammy Watkins
.
Rookie wide receiver Cooper Kupp had his first career 100 yard game as he totaled 116 yards on eight catches. This Rams team accomplished their statement win game, now onto an Arizona team which shouldn’t be too much of a problem.
I did not see this coming, but the Arizona Cardinals took care of the Jacksonville Jaguars this past Sunday with a game winning field. The Cardinals must of watched the film with the Rams vs Jaguars as once Los Angeles took the running game away, the Jags were a bit lost.
Arizona took away the running game early as star running back Leonard Fournette totaled 25 yards on only 12 carries. Quarterback Blake Bortles had to use his legs more than Fournette as he totaled 65 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Overall the Arizona defense played well as the offense played even better as they went up against a top defensive team.
Quarterback Blaine Gabbert is finding his momentum with this team as he completed 22 of his 38 passes for 241 passing yards and two touchdowns. Gabbert did throw an interception but he led this team to a huge win. The running game also was nice for the Cardinals as running back Adrian Peterson had 20 carries for 79 yards.
Writer’s Prediction
If the Los Angeles Rams were able to stop one of the hottest teams in the NFL, I don’t think the Cardinals will cause them any issue. Gabbert does play well but the Los Angeles Rams offense is way too good. Pick: Los Angeles (-7)
