The Rams got back on track Sunday night, beating the Chicago Bears 17-7at home. The win moved their record to 6-4 and kept their playoff hopes alive, though they still remain out of the postseason picture at the moment.
It was a much-needed win considering the Vikings beat the Broncos and improved to 8-3, while the Seahawks were off in Week 11. A loss would’ve put the Rams 2.5 games behind Minnesota for a wild-card spot, which would’ve been disastrous.
Here’s how the NFC playoff picture looks right now after 11 weeks.
- West: 49ers (9-1)
- North: Packers (8-2)
- South: Saints (8-2)
- East: Cowboys (6-4)
- Wild card: Seahawks (8-2)
- Wild card: Vikings (8-3)
In the hunt
Rams (6-4)
Eagles (5-5)
Panthers (5-5)
The Rams nearly got a lot of help on Sunday, in addition to picking up a half-game on the idle Seahawks.
The Broncos blew a 20-point lead against the Vikings, and the Cardinals were outscored 19-7 in the fourth quarter to lose 36-26 to the 49ers. Had the Broncos and Cardinals pulled off those upsets, it would’ve helped the Rams immensely in the NFC playoff race.
But, they took care of their own business, which is most important. It’s possible the Rams will need to win out to make the playoffs, though it’s unlikely that’ll be the requirement. The 49ers have a daunting schedule coming up against the Packers, Ravens and Saints in the next three weeks, while Minnesota has to face the Seahawks, Chargers and Packers before the season ends.
The Rams will need to finish at least 10-6 to have a chance, which means they have to finish 4-2 in the last six weeks.
