Inglewood, California, January 3, 2026
The Los Angeles Rams are set to host the Arizona Cardinals in their regular-season finale. With a playoff berth secured, the Rams seek to regain momentum after a two-game losing streak. Coach Sean McVay emphasizes the importance of a strong performance to improve their playoff seeding. Meanwhile, the Cardinals, having a challenging season, are looking to end their losing streak. The Rams aim to set the tone for the postseason ahead.
Los Angeles Rams Aim for Momentum Against Arizona Cardinals
Rams seek win to boost playoff positioning
Inglewood, California – The Los Angeles Rams have clinched a playoff berth and are set to host the Arizona Cardinals in their regular-season finale on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at SoFi Stadium. Despite already securing their postseason position, the Rams aim to build momentum and improve their seeding with a strong performance against the Cardinals.
Rams’ Playoff Position and Recent Performance
The Rams (11-5) have experienced a two-game losing streak, including a 27-24 defeat to the Atlanta Falcons on December 29, 2025. In that game, quarterback Matthew Stafford threw for 269 yards, with two touchdowns and three interceptions on 22-of-38 passing (57.9%). Running back Kyren Williams contributed 92 rushing yards on 13 carries (7.1 yards per carry) and added three receptions for 38 yards. Wide receiver Xavier Smith had 67 receiving yards on four catches (16.8 per reception). Despite these efforts, the Rams’ recent losses have impacted their playoff seeding, dropping them from the top spot in the NFC to the No. 5 seed. Coach Sean McVay has indicated that all healthy starters will play against the Cardinals, emphasizing the importance of regaining their winning form before the playoffs.
Cardinals’ Season Overview
The Arizona Cardinals (3-13) have had a challenging season, currently on a 13-game losing streak against opponents with a winning record. Their most recent game was a 45-17 loss to the Rams on December 7, 2025.
Playoff Implications
While the Rams have clinched a playoff spot, their seeding remains in flux. A win against the Cardinals could potentially improve their position, depending on the outcomes of other Week 18 games. The Rams’ performance in this final regular-season game is crucial for setting the tone as they head into the postseason.
Looking Ahead
Following the regular-season finale, the Rams will prepare for their upcoming playoff matchup. The exact opponent and game details will be determined based on the final standings and playoff bracket. Fans are encouraged to stay updated through official Rams communications for the latest information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the significance of the Rams’ game against the Cardinals?
The game is important for the Rams to build momentum and potentially improve their playoff seeding before the postseason begins.
2. How have the Rams performed recently?
The Rams have experienced a two-game losing streak, including a 27-24 defeat to the Atlanta Falcons on December 29, 2025. Despite these losses, they have secured a playoff berth.
3. What is the status of the Arizona Cardinals?
The Arizona Cardinals have had a challenging season, currently on a 13-game losing streak against opponents with a winning record. Their most recent game was a 45-17 loss to the Rams on December 7, 2025.
4. How does the Rams’ playoff seeding affect their postseason prospects?
The Rams’ current No. 5 seed means they will face a higher-seeded team in the first round of the playoffs. A win against the Cardinals could improve their seeding, potentially leading to a more favorable matchup in the postseason.
5. When will the Rams’ playoff opponent be determined?
The Rams’ exact playoff opponent and game details will be determined based on the final standings and playoff bracket, which will be announced after the conclusion of Week 18 games.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Date | January 4, 2026 |
| Location | SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA |
| Rams Current Record | 11-5 |
| Cardinals Current Record | 3-13 |
| Rams’ Last Game Result | Loss to Atlanta Falcons (27-24) |
| Cardinals’ Last Game Result | Loss to Rams (45-17) |
| Rams’ Current Seed | No. 5 in NFC |
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