The Los Angeles Rams delivered a dominant performance Monday night, defeating the Minnesota Vikings 27-9 in an NFC wild-card playoff game that showcased their defensive prowess and offensive efficiency. Quarterback Matthew Stafford led the charge with two touchdown passes, while the Rams’ defense tied an NFL playoff record with nine sacks, stifling Minnesota quarterback Sam Darnold in his postseason debut.
The game, originally scheduled to be played in Inglewood, California, was relocated to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, due to devastating wildfires in Southern California. Despite the move, the Rams (11-7) looked at home, supported by an estimated 45,000 fans who made the trek to the Phoenix suburbs.
From the opening snap, the Rams dictated the pace of the game. LA scored on its first drive and built a commanding 10-0 lead by the end of the first quarter. Rookie Jared Verse provided the game’s defining moment late in the second quarter. With the Rams leading 10-3, Darnold was pressured by a blitzing Ahkello Witherspoon and fumbled the ball. Verse scooped it up and sprinted 57 yards for a touchdown, capping the play with a celebratory somersault into the end zone.
“It was a surreal moment,” Verse said after the game. “When I saw the ball, I just thought, ‘Don’t mess this up.’ Once I got into the open field, I knew I was taking it all the way.”
Stafford connected with wide receivers Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp for touchdown passes, while running back Kyren Williams added 97 rushing yards to balance the offense.
The Rams’ defense was relentless, sacking Darnold nine times and forcing two turnovers. The pressure began early, as Darnold was sacked five times in the first half alone. Cobie Durant intercepted a pass intended for Jordan Addison, further frustrating Minnesota’s offense.
Darnold, who was playing on a one-year deal with the Vikings, struggled for a second consecutive game. After a subpar performance in the regular-season finale against Detroit, his future with Minnesota is now uncertain.
With the win, the Rams advance to face the NFC’s top-seeded Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. Head coach Sean McVay praised his team’s resilience amid the logistical challenges caused by the venue change.
“We talked all week about controlling what we can control,” McVay said. “This team showed incredible focus and determination. Now, we’ve got to carry that into next week.”
The loss capped a bittersweet season for the Vikings (14-4), who had aspirations of securing the NFC’s top seed before faltering late. Darnold’s playoff debut will be remembered for all the wrong reasons, as the offensive line struggled to protect him and the team’s offense failed to find its rhythm.
“This isn’t how we wanted it to end,” Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell said. “Credit to the Rams—they played a great game. We’ll evaluate everything this offseason and make the necessary adjustments.”
The Rams’ victory highlighted their playoff readiness and ability to thrive under adversity. With Stafford in command, a defense firing on all cylinders, and a strong showing of fan support, LA heads to Philadelphia with momentum and confidence. Meanwhile, the Vikings face an offseason of uncertainty, starting with the quarterback position.
The stage is set for an exciting divisional round as the Rams aim to keep their postseason run alive.