Rams’ biggest threat to NFC West crown isn’t who you think

The biggest challenge to the Los Angeles Rams winning the NFC West this season isn’t the Seattle Seahawks, as commonly believed, but rather the Arizona Cardinals.

Currently, the Rams and Seahawks are tied for first place at 8-6, while the Cardinals are close behind at 7-7. The Rams will face the Cardinals in Week 17 and the Seahawks in Week 18. The Cardinals have already defeated the Rams earlier in the season, and LA is aiming for a season sweep over Seattle.

The Cardinals have the easiest remaining schedule, with key matchups in Weeks 17 and 18. Here’s their remaining slate:

Cardinals’ Remaining Schedule:

• Week 16: at Carolina Panthers
• Week 17: at Los Angeles Rams
• Week 18: vs San Francisco 49ers

The Panthers game in Week 16 looks like the most winnable of the remaining matchups. Despite Bryce Young’s improvement, Arizona is expected to handle business, especially with the playoffs on the line. A win would set up a critical showdown between the Rams and Cardinals in Week 17.

The 49ers, already eliminated from playoff contention, have little reason to field Brock Purdy in Week 18, especially as they’ll likely extend their quarterback’s contract in the offseason.

Rams’ Remaining Schedule:

• Week 16: at New York Jets
• Week 17: vs Arizona Cardinals
• Week 18: vs Seattle Seahawks

The Jets won’t be an easy opponent, as Aaron Rodgers is still performing well despite the offense’s struggles. The Rams are unlikely to rest their starters in Week 18, a change from previous seasons when they had already clinched a playoff spot.

Seahawks’ Remaining Schedule:

• Week 16: vs Minnesota Vikings
• Week 17: at Chicago Bears
• Week 18: at Los Angeles Rams

The Bears are a puzzling team, and with their former offensive coordinator fired, Seattle will face challenges. Seattle’s matchup against a strong Minnesota team is also tricky, as the Vikings are vying for the NFC North title.

Geno Smith’s injury raises concerns for the Seahawks’ postseason hopes. He had to leave the Sunday Night Football game against the Green Bay Packers due to a knee issue, though further testing will determine the extent of the injury. Any missed time could severely impact Seattle’s playoff chances.

In conclusion, with their favorable schedule and momentum, the Cardinals are in the best position to challenge the Rams for the NFC West title.