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The Los Angeles Rams continue to dominate as they have now won four straight games after securing an impressive victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Week 16 action. Matthew Stafford and company led from start to finish and were able to overcome the late surge of their opponents to emerge with a 30-23 win. In this post, we'll be looking at our Rams Week 16 takeaways following the win.
Following another loss by the Arizona Cardinals, the Rams have already overtaken their division rivals and are currently sitting as the top-seeded team in the NFC West. After successfully booking their seat in the postseason, the team will aim to increase their chances of clinching the division title when they visit the Baltimore Ravens for Week 17 proceedings.
With that said, here are our Rams Week 16 takeaways.
Rams Week 16 Takeaways
3. The special teams delivered for Los Angeles.
Though the offense didn't play at its best, the Rams' special teams managed to pull through and provide much-needed points across the board. Wide receiver Brandon Powell was a sparkplug for Los Angeles as he returned a punt for a 61-yard touchdown. Kicker Matt Gay also made his presence felt as he nailed all three of his field-goal attempts from the field for a total of 12 points.
Finally, wide receiver Van Jefferson secured the game after leading the hands team to recover an onside kick late in the fourth quarter. Though they are often being underlooked by many, it can't be denied that the special teams played a huge role in allowing the Rams to nab the crucial victory and make their way back to the playoffs.
2. Defense did a solid job of containing the Vikings' offense.
Through the course of the season, the Vikings' offense has been quite unpredictable as they can catch any team by surprise. In Week 16, opposing QB Kirk Cousins and WR Justin Jefferson attempted to do just that as they tallied their usual numbers. However, the Rams' defenders were able to hold their ground as they prevented Minnesota from successfully mounting a comeback.
Linebacker Travin Howard recorded an interception after coming off the bench while star cornerback Jalen Ramsey slowed down Jefferson and prevented him from contributing to the scoring department. Defensive tackle Aaron Donald compiled five tackles and a sack while nose tackle Greg Gaines also finished with two tackles and a sack before leaving the game with a hand injury.
Overall, the production of the defensive unit was able to contain the momentum of the Vikings' offense. The opponents may have had their moments but they still fell short in completing their comeback attempt thanks to the solid efforts of defensive coordinator Raheem Morris and his men.
1. The team's depth showed as Matthew Stafford went through a rough night.
It is safe to say that Week 16 didn't turn out to be a good outing for Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. He only threw for 197 yards on 21-of-37 attempts to go with a touchdown. The Vikings' defense also got the better of the veteran playmaker as they recorded three interceptions against him on Sunday.
With their QB struggling to find a steady rhythm on the field, running back Sony Michel stepped up and exploded for a season-high 131 yards on 27 carries and a rushing TD for the Rams. The team's special teams and defensive unit also went to work as they pulled out all the stops in order to overcome the Vikings.
It may have been an off night for Stafford but it is certain that he will eventually find his way back and regain his composure on the field in the weeks to come. Indeed, Sean McVay will be needing his orchestrator to play at his best, especially as they aim to finish the regular season on a high note and enter the postseason with winning momentum on their side.
