The Los Angeles Rams’ projected win total was set at 7.5 games by the oddsmakers this year, a number they’re on the verge of eclipsing with three games remaining. They’ve exceeded all expectations at 7-7, which has them in possession of the seventh seed in the NFC right now.
The Rams did their best to block the outside noise in the offseason and early in the season, focusing on winning one game at a time. Sean McVay didn’t pay any attention to the low expectations and critics outside the Rams’ building, fully expecting that this team could make it to the playoffs.
After Sunday’s 28-20 win over the Commanders, McVay said he’s not surprised the Rams are in position to potentially make the postseason. He also realizes there are three games remaining and still plenty of work to do.
“No, I’m not surprised, but the story isn’t written yet,” McVay said. “If the season ended right now, you’re excited. But man, there’s a lot of football left and there’s a lot of teams in contention. Hey, let’s see what the hell we can do moving forward against a great challenge on Thursday. But I love working with this group, I like the steadiness. To be 4-1 coming off the bye, the way that they’ve played, let’s see if we can go get our fifth.”
Thursday’s matchup with the Saints is virtually a playoff game for the Rams. If they win, their playoff odds improve to 76%, according to the New York Times. If they lose, their odds drop to 14%.
The Rams will face the Giants and 49ers in the final two weeks, but they can’t look ahead to those games. They need to remain focused on the Saints, a team with some momentum after beating the Giants, 24-6, on Sunday afternoon.
