Rams vs. Commanders Live In-Game Updates, Highlights

Originally posted on Los Angeles Rams on SI
By Anthony Licciardi | Last updated Dec 17, 2023 11:57 AM ET

The Los Angeles Rams (6-7) are firmly in win-now mode against the Washington Commanders (4-9) on Sunday.

Week 15’s action kicks off a three-game stretch of winnable games Los Angeles needs to keep itself above water. A loss in any of the next three weeks would mean a Week 18 date with the San Francisco 49ers becomes a do-or-die affair.

Needless to say, every Sunday from here on out is critical to shaping up the NFC playoff picture. The Rams, led by quarterback Matthew Stafford, have the fortune of an advantageous matchup against the Commanders.

Few quarterbacks are playing better ball than Stafford right now. He’s attempting throws half the league wouldn’t think of and continuing to find success when targeting receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua.

Meanwhile, Washington has the league’s worst defense by expected points added per play, at the hands of a porous secondary. Despite ranking 15th in success rate, the Commanders' defense has fared so poorly due to a complete inability to prevent explosive plays. There will be downfield opportunities for Stafford to test and, given how this season has gone for Washington, it seems likely they’ll be cashed in on.

The Commanders’ pass rush had the legs cut out from under it at the trade deadline when edge rushers Montez Sweat and Chase Young were dealt. This is a defense dead in the water against one of the most high-octane offenses the NFC has to offer.

Of course, running back Kyren Williams’ incredible play as of late will help, too. But when push comes to shove, it’s a passing league. Los Angeles has the better quarterback and better matchups downfield. Expect that to show up in a crucial home game.

WHAT: Los Angeles Rams (6-7) vs. Washington Commanders (4-9)

WHERE: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA (70,240)

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023, 1:05 p.m. (PT)

TELEVISION: CBS

RADIO: ESPNLA 710 AM, Tu Liga 1330 AM

ODDS: Rams -6.5 (-118), -300 Moneyline, Total: 48.5 (o -118/u -110)

Live updates will appear after kickoff.

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Rams on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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