Cardinals vs Rams: NFL Week 18 Score & Updates

Rams Close Out Season with 37-20 victory Over Cardinals

The los Angeles Rams concluded their 2025 NFL regular season with a decisive 37-20 win over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, January 4th, at SoFi Stadium. Despite a late third-quarter lead by Arizona, the Rams rallied with 21 unanswered points to secure the victory and finish the season strong.

Did you know? – Matthew Stafford became the first Rams quarterback to throw for four touchdowns in a game since Kurt Warner in 2001.

Cardinals fall Short After Promising Start

The arizona Cardinals, ending the season with a 3-14 record, briefly held a lead in the third quarter, but ultimately succumbed to the Rams’ offensive pressure. Quarterback Jacoby Brissett finished with a respectable 22-for-31 for 242 yards and two touchdowns,but was hampered by six sacks and a costly fumble.

Despite the loss, several Cardinals players showcased individual brilliance. Wide receiver Michael Wilson had five catches for 98 yards and a touchdown, though a long reception was nullified by a penalty.Tight end Trey McBride continued his extraordinary season with seven catches for 65 yards.A surprising highlight came from punter Matt Haack, who completed a 28-yard pass to Emari Demercado on a fake punt – his second career completion.Demercado also contributed two carries for 29 yards.

Pro tip – Fake punts, like Matt Haack’s completion, are statistically more likely to succeed when the opposing team is least expecting them, often in the second half.

Stafford Leads Rams to Dominating Finish

Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford continued to build his case for MVP consideration, completing 25 of 40 passes for 259 yards and four touchdowns. Wide receiver puka Nacua had a standout performance, adding to his NFL-leading reception total with 10 catches for 76 yards and a touchdown. The Rams’ rushing attack also proved effective, with Blake Corum contributing a 21-yard run and Puka Nacua adding a 17-yard carry.

Reader question – Budda Baker, a Cardinals safety, has been a consistent defensive leader. He has recorded over 100 tackles in each of the last four seasons.

Game Recap: A Tale of Two Halves

The game began with a series of punts and field goals, remaining tied 6-6 at the end of the second quarter. The Rams took a 16-6 lead into halftime after an interception by Ahkello Witherspoon led to a field goal as time expired.

The Cardinals briefly regained the lead in the third quarter when tight end Josiah Deguara scored his first touchdown since 2021, capping a 76-yard drive. However, the Rams responded swiftly. A fourth-down touchdown pass from Stafford to Nacua, combined with subsequent scores, sealed the Cardinals’ fate.

A key turning point came late in the third quarter when Cardinals safety Budda Baker exited the game with a torso injury during a Rams touchdown drive. Cornerback Will Johnson had previously been ruled out due to a first-half injury.

Gannon’s Future Remains Uncertain

As the cardinals conclude a challenging season, questions linger regarding the future of head coach Jonathan Gannon. Though, reports suggest his position is “leaning safe,” according to insights from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Looking Ahead

The Rams’ victory caps off a successful season, while the