EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – The Los Angeles Rams, in a dramatic turn of events, secured their return to the postseason with a hard-fought 26-25 victory over the New York Giants. This win, combined with the Pittsburgh Steelers defeating the Seattle Seahawks, ensured the Rams’ playoff berth after missing out last year.
Running back Kyren Williams was the star of the show for the Rams, rushing for 87 yards and a career-high three touchdowns. Despite some shaky moments, the Rams (9-7) managed to win their third consecutive game and six out of the last seven, demonstrating resilience and a knack for late-game heroics.
Matthew Stafford threw for 317 yards and a touchdown but also had two interceptions, ending his streak of five games without a turnover. Despite these mishaps, the Rams’ offense, complemented by their defense’s late critical stops, proved just enough to edge past the Giants.
The Giants (5-11), under the guidance of coach Brian Daboll, nearly pulled off an upset. Gunner Olszewski’s 94-yard punt return touchdown brought New York within a point late in the game. However, a missed opportunity on a 2-point conversion attempt, followed by a failed 54-yard field goal try by Mason Crosby, saw the Giants fall short in their valiant effort.
Taylor, starting in place of Tommy DeVito, had a commendable performance, throwing for 319 yards and scrambling effectively. His 80-yard touchdown pass to Darius Slayton and a 24-yard run by Wan’Dale Robinson on an end-around were highlights for the Giants.
For the Rams, Puka Nacua’s 80-yard catch-and-run and Demarcus Robinson’s 37-yard reception set the stage for Williams’ touchdowns. However, Rams kicker Lucas Havrisik’s missed extra points kept the game closer than expected.
The game was also notable for Dane Belton’s two interceptions and a fumble recovery for New York, breaking Stafford’s streak of 170 consecutive passes without an interception.
In the records department, Nacua is closing in on the NFL single-season record for receptions by a rookie and is nearing a franchise record for most receiving yards in a season by a rookie.
Injuries were a concern for both teams, with notable players such as the Rams’ Alaric Jackson and Bobby Brown and the Giants’ Deonte Banks, Tyre Phillips, and Jason Pinnock exiting the game.
Looking ahead, the Rams are set to prepare for the postseason with a game against San Francisco, while the Giants will wrap up their season at home against Philadelphia.
