The Los Angeles Rams are starting to show signs of life in the NFC West, with a resurgence of form just as their divisional rival, the Arizona Cardinals, are struggling through injuries. On paper, this matchup is shaping up to be a statement game for a Rams team that has quietly put together a streak of wins, despite some key losses in the off-season. With the Cardinals limping into this game, battered by a string of injuries to critical players, the Rams are poised to capitalize on this opportunity.
But herein lies the controversy: is this Rams resurgence really a sign of their strength, or are they simply benefiting from a schedule that has exposed weaker, injury-depleted opponents? Critics argue that while the Rams’ offense has looked sharper, particularly in the hands of Matthew Stafford, they are still struggling to find consistency on the defensive side. The Cardinals, meanwhile, have been hit with one of the most injury-riddled seasons in recent memory, with key players like Kyler Murray and their defensive stars out or playing hurt.
One could argue that the Rams’ rising performance is less a testament to their own progress and more a product of misfortune for the Cardinals. With Arizona missing its starting quarterback, offensive linemen, and key defensive players, the Rams are simply taking advantage of an opportunity. It’s tough to ignore the fact that the Cardinals, already a team in turmoil, are now expected to field a hobbled roster against a Rams squad that seems to be catching fire at just the right moment.
And here’s the most controversial take: it might not be a fair matchup. Yes, the Rams are improving, but how much of that is actually due to their own play versus the timing of the Cardinals’ injuries? It’s hard to feel entirely impressed with the Rams’ success if we consider how much the Cardinals’ setbacks have played into it. After all, when you’re facing a team that is missing its franchise quarterback and key defensive leaders, how much stock can we really put into the Rams’ rise?
Furthermore, the real test for the Rams will come in the postseason. Can they maintain their upward trajectory against healthier, better-prepared teams? Or will they fall back into mediocrity once they face true competition? Arizona’s troubles should not obscure the fact that the Rams have yet to prove themselves against top-tier teams when they are at full strength. As much as their fans would like to believe in the resurrection of the Rams’ Super Bowl potential, their rise could easily be short-lived, and a matchup against a wounded team like the Cardinals could be nothing more than a hollow confidence booster.
For the Rams, this game might represent a golden opportunity to add a win to their resume, but for the Cardinals, it could mean the beginning of a new chapter of uncertainty. If Arizona’s injuries continue to pile up, we may see the Rams continue to rise in the standings. But as for whether that rise is truly earned? That’s still up for debate.