49ers clinch final NFC playoff spot; Rams secure NFC West title despite loss

The Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers took part in arguably the game of the week on Sunday, as the visiting Niners escaped with a 27-24 overtime victory. The clash between divisional opponents was not only a nail-biter, but had major playoff implications as well.

Despite the defeat, the Rams were still able to clinch the NFC West title, thanks to the Arizona Cardinals loss to the Seattle Seahawks. The 49ers meanwhile needed either a win or tie, or a New Orleans Saints loss or tie to sneak into the postseason.

New Orleans took care of the Atlanta Falcons 30-20 on Sunday, meaning the pressure was on San Francisco to come out on top (or tie). Behind another standout all-around performance from Deebo Samuel -- who threw a 24-yard touchdown pass, rushed eight times for 45 yards and a score, and had four receptions for 95 yards -- the Niners were able to come back from a 17-3 halftime deficit.

Jauan Jennings also came up clutch in the victory, making six catches on seven targets for 94 yards and two touchdowns.

The Rams will host the Cardinals in the wild card round of the postseason while the Niners will travel to face the NFC East-champion Dallas Cowboys. In the other first-round NFC playoff matchup, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will host the Philadelphia Eagles, while the top-seeded Green Bay Packers will have a first-round bye.