The Los Angeles Rams’ season ultimately comes down to their Week 16 rematch against the Seattle Seahawks. Securing a divisional sweep against the second-best team in the NFC West would not only lock them in atop their division but also give them a strong chance to claim the number one seed for the playoffs.
The Rams should feel confident after their Week 15 domination over the Detroit Lions, but they must avoid getting comfortable. This upcoming game presents several challenges: it will be played on a short week and on the road, both factors that can impact performance.
### What To Keep in Mind
First and foremost, this is a Thursday Night Football (TNF) game. The Rams’ only TNF appearance this season was against their other divisional rival, the San Francisco 49ers, which ended in an overtime loss. That game was one the Rams should have won but fell short due to costly fumbles by both Matthew Stafford and Kyren Williams.
Mistake-free football will be critical in the rematch against the Seahawks. Although the Rams intercepted Seattle’s quarterback Sam Darnold four times in their Week 11 matchup, they still only narrowly emerged victorious. Protecting the ball remains paramount.
### Injury Concerns and Impact
Adding to the challenge, the Rams will likely be without their secondary wide receiver, Davante Adams. Adams reaggravated his hamstring injury in the win against the Lions and is officially doubtful for tonight’s game. Although Adams only recorded one catch for one yard on eight targets the last time these two teams met—and wasn’t particularly effective against the Seahawks—it’s still a significant loss for the Rams’ offense not to have him on the field.
### The Role of Puka Nacua
Receiver Puka Nacua has been a recent headline-maker following his comments about NFL officiating, but on the field, he’ll need to perform at a high level against Seattle’s defense. Nacua was the Rams’ best receiver in their first win over the Seahawks, and that production will be crucial if Los Angeles wants to secure a second victory this season.
### The Stakes Are High
This game is the Rams’ most crucial contest to date in the season. They simply cannot afford to let it slip away.
The game kicks off at 5:15 PM PST / 8:15 PM EST and will be broadcast on Amazon Prime Video. Be sure to follow along with our live game thread for timely updates throughout the contest.
### Start of the First Quarter:
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https://www.si.com/nfl/rams/onsi/los-angeles-seahawks-live-game-thread-week-16