The Rams have had an emotional week, with the fires raging in Los Angeles forcing their wild card game with the Vikings to be moved to Arizona.
But head coach Sean McVay’s team responded, as Los Angeles led Minnesota 24-3 at halftime.
The Los Angeles defense put relentless pressure on San Darnold, collecting six sacks in the first two quarters. None were more consequential than Ahkello Witherspoon’s strip-sack midway through the second quarter, which first-round rookie Jared Verse recovered and rolled 57 yards down the field for a touchdown.
But the offense also picked up after some weak performances during the regular season. Three of Los Angeles’ first eight plays went for at least 20 yards, as the Rams scored a touchdown and a field goal on their first two drives.
Then, after a fourth-and-2 late in the quarter by Minnesota, quarterback Matthew Stafford threw his second touchdown of the night – this one going to tight end Davis Allen for a 13-yard score to give Los Angeles a 21 lead.
Stafford finished the first half 14 of 20 for 154 yards with two touchdowns and no picks.
Kyren Williams is averaging 7.4 yards per carry, as he has gained 37 yards on just five attempts.
On the other side, Darnold is 13 of 16 for 113 yards with one interception. Justin Jefferson had five catches for 58 yards.
Rams tight end Tyler Higbee leads with five catches for 58 yards, but is doubtful he will return due to a chest injury. He is just returning from a torn ACL suffered in last year’s wild card game against Detroit. Higbee had all five of his targets caught for 58 yards to start Monday, signaling his importance in the game plan.
Additionally, Rams defensive tackle Bobby Brown is questionable due to a shoulder injury.
Needing a spark, the Vikings will get the second half kickoff.
