Witherspoon’s Late Surge Secures Rams’ Hold on NFC West Against Cardinals

In a tense matchup, the Los Angeles Rams secured a narrow 13-9 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, marking the Rams’ fifth win in their last six games. This victory moved the Rams closer to clinching the NFC West division title.

Ahkello Witherspoon made a pivotal play with a diving interception in the end zone just seconds before the game concluded. The Rams, who struggled offensively throughout the night, relied on 129 receiving yards from Puka Nacua and a key touchdown from Kyren Williams to drive their success.

With one game remaining, the Rams will host the Seattle Seahawks next weekend. Depending on the outcomes of several upcoming games involving other teams, the Rams could already secure the division title even before facing Seattle.

If the Bills, Browns, Vikings, Commanders, and 49ers earn a combined three wins over the next two days, Los Angeles would become NFC West champions regardless of their performance against the Seahawks.

Despite their playoff hopes extinguished the previous week, Arizona put forth a strong defensive effort. Quarterback Kyler Murray threw for 321 yards but was hindered by two late interceptions. The Cardinals managed only three points on three drives into Rams’ territory in the fourth quarter.

In a dramatic final minute, Arizona drove to the Rams’ 5-yard line, but Witherspoon’s interception denied them any points. Murray’s earlier struggles on crucial drives proved costly for the Cardinals, who have now lost five out of their last six games.

Matthew Stafford completed the game with 189 passing yards, helping the Rams maintain the clock as they captured their ninth win in 11 games since their bye week.

Arizona’s standout tight end, Trey McBride, achieved his 100th reception and scored his first touchdown of the season, becoming only the tenth tight end in NFL history to catch 100 passes in a single season.

Chad Ryland added a field goal for Arizona, bringing their score to 10-9 early in the fourth quarter. However, Rams rookie Joshua Karty’s field goal restored a slight cushion. Notably, Michael Hoecht blocked an extra-point attempt from the Cardinals, further emphasizing the Rams’ defensive prowess.

In terms of injuries, the Cardinals’ Garrett Williams was evaluated for a concussion, while running back James Conner played through a knee issue but struggled for impact on the ground.

Meanwhile, Rams right tackle Rob Havenstein missed another game due to a shoulder injury sustained in practice. With this victory, the Rams improved their record against Seattle to 11 wins in their last 15 contests, while the Cardinals prepare to face the 49ers in their season finale.