The Los Angeles Rams had a close win over the Detroit Lions to improve to 6-1. It was closer than expected–with a score of 28-19–but Matthew Stafford and Co. took control in the end to take the W.

The Lions jumped out to an early lead, but the Rams seized control of the game in the fourth quarter. This game had a ton of storylines to follow, including Jared Goff and Stafford facing off against their former teams.

Stafford and the Rams picked up a big win this week despite not playing their best. With that said, here are three takeaways from their close Week 7 win over the Lions.

Los Angeles Rams Week 7 Takeaways

3. The defense is elite

The Rams' defense has been a major reason why they have been such a great team. They have a ton of talent at every level of the defense. Against the Lions, the defense picked off Goff twice, which proved to be key stops. The LA defense was also able to pressure Goff, getting two sacks (per ESPN).

Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey are the stars of the defense. Their presence is a big reason why the defense is elite. Donald is a game-wrecker and requires so much attention from opposing team's offensive lines. Even in the game against the Lions, Donald had a major impact despite not having a sack.

Look for the defense to continue having success and being the catalyst for the Rams.

2. The Matthew Stafford trade was worth it

In the offseason, the Rams made a big trade for Stafford. After a disappointing playoff exit with Jared Goff under center, the team sent Goff along with two first-round picks and a third-round pick for Stafford.

Stafford has been worth all the value the Rams had to give up to acquire him, to say the least.

Against the Lions, Stafford threw for 334 yards as well as three touchdowns and zero interceptions. He has been able to take care of the ball while also taking shots downfield to receivers. Stafford has been a perfect fit in Sean McVay's offense and he should continue to grow as the season moves on.

1. The Rams are contenders

The Rams have a very talented roster and have proven to be a contender in the NFC. With Stafford under center, the offense has transformed into an elite group that is hard for defenses to stop. When they establish the run, it opens up the play-action game.

Even when the run game isn't dominant, some production can open up the passing game. This was the case against the Lions as the Rams only rushed for 47 yards but had a great passing attack. Cooper Kupp was the main beneficiary, adding more to what has already been a career year. Kupp had 10 receptions for 156 yards and two touchdowns, torching the Lions' secondary.

He has emerged as a top receiver in the league and is a big reason why the Rams are contenders this season. The Rams are winning the games they need to, especially being in a highly competitive NFC. They face some tough competition as the Green Bay Packers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Arizona Cardinals, and Dallas Cowboys have all started the season strong.

If the Rams want to earn the top seed in the NFC, it will take a near-perfect record down the stretch. Look for the team to finish with one of the best records in the league and make a deep postseason run.