Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay speaks with officials during the divisional playoff game. Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Rams, Buccaneers trade fumbles on back-to-back plays

By Adam Stites | Last updated 1/23/22

Momentum swung wildly between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Los Angeles Rams early in the fourth quarter of their divisional-round matchup.

Tampa Bay began digging into a 27-6 hole by scoring a touchdown in the final seconds of the third quarter to cut the deficit to 14. After forcing a three-and-out, the Buccaneers were in prime position to cut into the lead further, but the Rams' Von Miller seemingly saved the day with a sack of Tom Brady that forced a fumble. Miller recovered the fumble to give Los Angeles a great opportunity to extend its lead.

.@VonMiller strip sack! What a PLAY. #RamsHouse

: #LARvsTB on NBC
: https://t.co/6Hz1DjFj3t pic.twitter.com/Yvyf7XbZGw
— NFL (@NFL) January 23, 2022

The Rams wasted the chance, though. On the first play of the ensuing drive, a snap flew by the head of Matthew Stafford, and the Buccaneers recovered the fumble.

WHAT IS HAPPENING?!@Buccaneers get the ball RIGHT BACK.

: #LARvsTB on NBC
: https://t.co/6Hz1DjFj3t pic.twitter.com/pIMo83Zp3O
— NFL (@NFL) January 23, 2022

Tampa Bay wasn't able to capitalize on its golden opportunity either, as the team turned the ball over on downs a few plays later. A personal foul on Rams safety Eric Weddle appeared to extend the Buccaneers' drive on fourth down, but officials ruled that it was a dead penalty that needed to be assessed after the turnover on downs.

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