Random Ramsdom: Analysts project Rams to clinch next playoff spot in NFC

NFL.com’s Judy Battista published a piece on Sunday night that discussed just how realistic the chances are for the “fringe” NFC teams who currently are either set to/have a chance to make the playoffs this season. This list includes the Rams, Seahawks, Bucs and Cardinals, and goes all the way to the Vikings, Bears and Eagles.

She ranks the team’s by “most trustworthy” to “no trust whatsoever” (to make the playoffs) and the Rams are her number one team at the top underneath the first category, just above the ‘Hawks and Bucs.

“A dominant defense, top running game, workable passing game and back-to-back demolitions of the Cardinals and Patriots are convincing enough that the Rams are going to emerge with a playoff spot, with a very good chance at the NFC West division title,” Battista said. “But it is the recent big-play ability of the defense that is most promising for the Rams. They’ve produced 11 turnovers in the last five games and have scored a defensive touchdown in each of the last three. In a tightly contested division race, those extras could be the difference. Also this: The Rams’ remaining games are against the winless Jets, and the Seahawks and Cardinals, both of whom the Rams have already beaten this season.”

An improved record is all but assured with the Jets on tap for next week, but games against two divisional opponents could go either way. They’ll be tough outings, despite the Rams already claiming victory over the two this season.

Rams fans can prepare for a fun and entertaining end to the 2020 regular season.

Now for today’s links.

Rams News:

Linebacker Kenny Young recorded his first NFL interception against the Patriots (TheRams.com)

Listen to Gerald Everrett mic’d up against the Patriots (TheRams.com)

The Rams are still in the hunt for the NFC’s one seed (The Rams Wire)

Bret Stuter highlights the evolution of the Rams practice squad (Ramblin’ Fan)

NFL News:

John Breech hands out letter grades for each team’s performance in Week 14 (CBS Sports)

The Bills handed the Steelers their second-straight loss (CBS Sports)

The Raiders fired DC Paul Guenther following loss to Colts (ESPN)

Bill Barnwell highlights Jalen Hurts’ performance in Week 14 along with trade destinations for Carson Wentz (ESPN)

Washington took control of first place in the NFC East with win over 49ers (Pro Football Talk)

Around The NFL discusses the biggest takeaways from Sunday’s slate of games (NFL.com)