NFC Divisional Playoff
(6) Los Angeles Rams at (1) Green Bay Packers
Rams: After leaving Wild Card Weekend, this is who I was the most impressed with. You just wondered how they would do without Jared Goff. Well, John Wolford started the game and was unfortunately knocked out of the game. Jared came back in and he didn’t need to do much because he had Cam Akers to lean upon. The rookie running back from Florida State was all over the place as he took the game over for the Rams. As gritty as Jared was in coming back, I couldn’t stop talking about the Los Angeles defense. They did everything to limit Russell Wilson in that game and succeeded. They made sure they contained and mirrored the quarterback all game long. Their goal was the make him uncomfortable and they did just that. After one big win, they look for another on Saturday in Green Bay, Wisconsin against the top seed.
Packers: If there was a team that needed home field advantage more than anyone else, it was these Packers. There’s nothing like the comforts of home and even without fans, the opponents have to deal with another aspect which is the weather. This time of the year, it’s quite chilly in Wisconsin. I’ve had fun watching this Green Bay team play this season. They’ve looked more comfortable on offense in year two of Matt LaFleur’s system. Aaron Rodgers has put together the best season of his career in 2020 as has Davante Adams. When I see them connect on a pass, they make it look effortless. The defense has also been improved this year. They’re great when it comes to rushing the passer and covering in the backend with that secondary. They’ve had their week off. The Rams are in town Saturday.
Rams X-Factor: Leonard Floyd– He’s been outstanding for the Rams defense this year. Next to Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey, he’s been one of their best defensive players. Furthermore, Leonard had himself quite the day against Seattle. I’m ready to see what he does here next.
Packers X-Factor: Allen Lazard– For years, we’ve been calling for the Packers to get that number two receiver. They have it in Allen. Anytime Aaron has looked his way, he’s made a play with the ball in his hands.
Final Thoughts: This should be fun. The matchup everyone will be watching in this one is Jalen Ramsey and Davante Adams. The top cornerback in the league against the best receiver in the business. The Rams must run the football early on. Also, Green Bay struggles to defend the run. On the other side, the Packers need to keep Rodgers protected. Furthermore, I see the Rams bringing pressure throughout this game. In conclusion, this could be a physical game.
Prediction: Packers 27 Rams 20
