The Los Angeles Rams delivered one of the most impressive wins of the season with their 44-42 victory over the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. After a tough loss to the Saints the previous week, where they failed to score in the first half, the Rams bounced back in a big way, piling on 24 points in the first half and holding off a fierce late rally by Josh Allen and the Bills.
This thrilling game will be remembered as one of the most exciting of the year, with quarterback Matthew Stafford throwing for 320 yards and two touchdowns, putting together nearly a perfect performance. Running back Kyren Williams also shone, running for 82 yards and scoring two touchdowns, breaking through Buffalo’s usually tough defense.
Rams head coach Sean McVay summed up the victory perfectly, saying, “the players did the damn thing.” Beating a Super Bowl contender like the Bills is a huge confidence boost for the Rams, especially as they battle for a playoff spot in the competitive NFC West. With just four weeks left in the regular season, this win improved the Rams’ chances of making the playoffs to 33%.
Had they lost, their playoff hopes would have dropped significantly, down to just 16%. But with their record now at 7-6, the Rams still have a strong shot at the postseason and even have a 31% chance to win the NFC West, according to The Athletic.
Looking ahead, the Rams face tough challenges in their upcoming road games against the 49ers and Jets. However, with key matchups against the Cardinals and Seahawks in weeks 17 and 18, they’re still in the hunt. With Stafford leading the way and wide receiver Puka Nacua forming a dangerous duo, the Rams are no longer just a dark horse in the race—they are a legitimate contender moving forward.