The Minnesota Vikings had a dominant regular season and earned a 14-3 record, but due to their losses to the Detroit Lions, Minnesota did not earn the #1 Seed in the NFC. The Los Angeles Rams won their division and current NFL rules dictate that a division winner hosts in the first round of the playoffs.
However, the Rams will not be hosting this game in L.A. Instead, both teams will travel to Arizona due to the horrific fires raging across California. Time will tell which team has the “home field” advantage.
Regardless of whatever advantage the Rams may have, or not have, I am going to pick the Vikings to win. Minnesota averages 6.4 points in the first quarter. That’s the second-best mark in the NFL trailing only the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Rams are second to last in first quarter points with 1.8. Only the Chicago Bears rank worse than L.A.
If the Rams start fast, then they have a chance, but the Rams typically haven’t started fast this season. If the Vikings take a lead early, this game could get away from L.A.
Vikings 27, Rams 13
Now, Sean McVay did have his team firing on all cylinders when they beat the Vikings 30-20 earlier in the season, so the Rams have a chance. If McVay can have the offense and defense humming then L.A. should be tough for anyone to beat.
If L.A.’s special teams continue to be a strength this team can make the NFC Championship game.
I am picking the Vikings for the win, but the Rams can prove me wrong, and they can prove others around the NFL wrong with a victory. We’ll see what happens on Monday night.
