Christmas came a little bit early for the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday.
Not only did the Rams beat the New York Jets to improve to 9-6, but they got help from the Minnesota Vikings and Carolina Panthers. A lot of help, actually.
Entering the week, the Rams had a 72% chance to make the playoffs. They were unquestionably in control of the West heading into Week 16, but their grip on the division got even stronger.
With their win and losses by the Cardinals and Seahawks, the Rams’ playoff odds sit at 83%, according to NFL.com. If Los Angeles can beat the Seahawks in the season finale, they will clinch the division.
In all likelihood, a win over the Cardinals on Sunday night will secure a playoff berth for the Rams, as long as they don’t lose a tiebreaker based on strength of victory in the event that they’re tied with Seattle.
Their final two games are against the Cardinals and Seahawks, so it’ll be two familiar foes trying to keep Los Angeles out of the playoffs.
The Seahawks will face the Bears in Week 17 so if the Rams beat the Cardinals and Seattle loses that game, the NFC West will be clinched before Week 18, thus allowing the Rams to rest their starters.
