Did you know? This NFC Championship matchup between the Rams and Seahawks marks just the second time in NFL playoff history that two teams have faced off after playing two regular-season games decided by fewer than three points. The other instance occurred in 1949 between the Bills and Browns.
Los Angeles Rams fans and Seattle Seahawks supporters are bracing for a high-stakes showdown: a trip to Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. The NFC West rivals will battle it out with a Super Bowl berth on the line.
A Rivalry Defined by Razor-Thin Margins
The Rams and Seahawks have consistently delivered nail-biting contests,setting the stage for another potentially unforgettable playoff game.
- The Rams and seahawks have played two incredibly close games this season, with a combined point differential of just one point.
- Seattle rallied from a 16-point deficit in Week 16 to defeat the Rams in overtime.
- The outcome of this game is expected to be decided by a single possession, mirroring the close contests of the regular season.
The history between these teams is remarkably tight. Throughout the regular season, the Rams narrowly outscored the Seahawks 58-57 and edged them in total yardage 830-829. In Week 11 at SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles secured a 21-19 victory, fueled by a career-worst four interceptions thrown by Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold. However, the Seahawks exacted revenge in Week 16 at Lumen Field, mounting a stunning comeback from a 30-14 deficit to win 38-37 in overtime on a two-point conversion pass from Darnold to tight end Eric saubert.
The Week 16 loss prompted the Rams to part ways with their special teams coordinator, Chris Blackburn, following a 58-yard punt return touchdown by Rashid shaheed that ignited Seattle’s improbable rally.
A panel of 12 sports analysts predict a similarly close contest,with 75% forecasting a one-possession game. Here’s a breakdown of their predictions:
Analyst Predictions
Puka Nacua will be too much for Seattle to handle. “The Rams have Matthew Stafford and Puka Nacua — a duo that shredded Seattle in Week 16 — and picked off Sam Darnold six times in two regular-season meetings. Give me the better quarterback in a thriller.” Rams 28, Seahawks 27
Seattle Seahawks (4)
One analyst believes Seattle’s defense will be the deciding factor. “The Seattle defense is the best unit left in the playoffs. I know the Rams had success the last time they played them against that defense, but this will be diffrent.” Seahawks 23, Rams 17
Another analyst highlighted Seattle’s home-field advantage.”Seattle’s defense is one of the few remaining superpowers that a team has in these playoffs. They have utterly dominated opponents this season, and they’ll be near-impossible to slay at home.” Seahawks 30, Rams 20
One analyst believes Seattle’s defense will prevail. “The better defense prevails since sam Darnold exorcised his Rams demons during the 4th quarter and overtime in Week 16.” Seahawks 23, Rams 20
Another analyst pointed to the Rams’ recent struggles. “Los Angeles hasn’t been the same team as blowing a 16-point fourth-quarter lead to Seattle in Week 16. Expect Seattle to exploit those weaknesses en route to its first Super Bowl appearance since the 2014 season.” Seahawks 20,Rams 17
