A turbulent 2021 season for the Los Angeles Rams looks set to have one more ride for coaches, players, and fans alike. Heading into Week 18, the Rams have playoff scenarios that stretch from them finishing as the second seed through to the fifth. With the NFL playoff picture set to be crystal clear after Week 18, let’s examine what the Rams need to do to clinch the NFC West and how they can finish in each available spot in the NFC.
Los Angeles Rams’ playoff scenarios in Week 18
When it comes to winning the division, the scenario for the Rams is simple. Match or better the result of the Cardinals and they will win the NFC West. However, if the Cardinals better the Rams’ result, Arizona will take home the NFC West crown.
If the Rams fail to win the division, they are consigned to the fifth seed. They cannot fall any lower than that, but equally, not being division winners, they cannot climb any higher either. If they do win the division, then things really get interesting for the Rams when it comes to playoff scenarios.
What scenarios would see Los Angeles as the No. 2 seed in the NFC?
The race for the second seed in the NFC is fascinating with four teams all in with a chance. The Rams have possession entering Sunday, and their scenarios are the simplest in that if they win, they have it.
There is another scenario where if the Rams tie they can take the seed if the Buccaneers fail to better the result. Here are the two scenarios for the Rams to take the No. 2 seed in the NFC:
- Rams win
- Rams tie and Buccaneers lose or tie
What are the scenarios that would see the Rams as the third seed in the NFC?
The Rams really do not want to leave things to chance with a loss. Yet, if they do, there is still a way they can wind up as the third seed if other results go their way.
- Rams tie and Buccaneers win
- Rams lose, Cardinals lose or tie, and Buccaneers lose
How can Los Angeles end up as the fourth seed?
Again, there is a very specific set of results that would see the Rams as the fourth seed. There is actually only one scenario in which this would happen.
- Rams lose, Cardinals lose or tie, and Buccaneers win or tie