The Los Angeles Rams didn’t just beat the Minnesota Vikings—they dismantled them. From the opening snap, the Rams’ defense was relentless, pressuring Sam Darnold on over half his dropbacks. Jared Verse, Byron Young, and Kobe Turner formed a fearsome trio, combining for nearly 20 pressures. By taking away the Vikings’ first reads and collapsing the pocket, the Rams made life miserable for the quarterback and his offensive line.
What stood out was the Rams’ ability to execute a game plan that neutralized Minnesota’s explosive tendencies. They took away the Vikings’ favorite plays and dared them to adjust, a challenge Minnesota’s coaching staff failed to meet. Even Darnold, who performed admirably throughout the regular season, looked overwhelmed and out of sync. It’s hard to blame him entirely—when your offensive line allows a 52% pressure rate, few quarterbacks can thrive.
For the Rams, this wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. Despite being one of the youngest and least expensive defenses in the league, their ability to shut down a top-tier offense speaks volumes. Sean McVay’s squad isn’t just playoff-ready; they’re built to contend in the NFC for years to come.
