Rams Coach Sean McVay to Play Healthy Starters in Week 18 Regardless of Playoff Seeding
As the Los Angeles Rams prepare to face off against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday afternoon, their playoff seeding hangs in the balance. Despite the uncertainty, Rams coach Sean McVay has made it clear that he will not alter his plan to play his healthy starters in Week 18. This decision marks a departure from McVay’s approach in previous seasons, where he has opted to rest key players when seeding was still up in the air.
Playoff Scenarios for the Rams
The Rams currently find themselves in a position where they could potentially be either the No. 5 or No. 6 seed in the NFC. If the San Francisco 49ers emerge victorious against the Seattle Seahawks on Saturday night, the Rams will be locked into the No. 6 seed. Conversely, if the Seahawks secure a win, the Rams will clinch the No. 5 seed with a victory over the Cardinals. The No. 5 seed will face the winner of the NFC South, while the No. 6 seed will be matched up against either the Eagles or Bears.
According to McVay, the decision to play his starters is driven by the need to maintain momentum and continuity heading into the postseason. “I think we’re getting healthy at the right time,” McVay stated, expressing optimism about the state of the Rams’ roster. The team has been dealing with a slew of injuries in recent weeks, including to key players such as wide receiver Davante Adams, right guard Kevin Dotson, left tackle Alaric Jackson, and running back Kyren Williams.
Injury Updates and Playoff Preparations
McVay provided updates on the status of several injured players, including Williams, who is likely to play against the Cardinals after injuring his ankle in Week 17. “I feel good about Kyren,” McVay said. “Kyren was able to have a good practice load yesterday.” The Rams also anticipate the return of tight end Tyler Higbee from injured reserve, pending any setbacks in practice on Friday. However, right guard Kevin Dotson will not play against the Cardinals, although McVay did not rule out the possibility of his returning for the playoffs.
As the Rams look to the postseason, McVay’s decision to play his healthy starters in Week 18 reflects his commitment to maintaining a competitive edge. With several key players nearing full health, the team is poised to make a strong push in the playoffs. According to ESPN, the Rams’ playoff seeding will be determined by the outcome of the 49ers-Seahawks game on Saturday night. As the team prepares for their matchup against the Cardinals, one thing is certain: McVay will not be holding back his starters, regardless of the playoff implications.
The Rams’ approach to Week 18 serves as a testament to the team’s focus on the present moment, rather than getting caught up in hypothetical playoff scenarios. By playing their healthy starters, the Rams aim to build momentum and carry it into the postseason. As McVay noted, “I think we’re getting healthy at the right time,” a sentiment that bodes well for the team’s chances in the playoffs.
