2021 LA Rams playoff picture forming via the ESPN Playoff machine

Week 15

By the time that Week 15 arrives, the NFC Playoff picture is nearly complete, and the AFC Playoff picture is beginning to take shape. Ironically, even if the LA Rams win all four games out of their BYE week, they enter Week 15 still as the fifth seed in the NFC Playoffs.  With the Arizona Cardinals facing the still winless (but with one tie) Detroit Lions, that won’t change this week.

LA Rams host Seattle Seahawks: If the 2021 NFL season winds down, this game will be less about the heated LA Rams rivalry with the Seahawks, and more about the imminent retirement of Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll, and the speculation of where quarterback Russell Wilson will end up in 2022. The LA Rams may struggle in this one, if for nothing else, than the mere fact that this team tends to hiccup after prolonged success. But the Rams are too close and the Seahawks are too far gone.

Predicted score: LA Rams 42 Seattle Seahawks 21

Other games with NFL Playoff implications

Washington at Philadelphia Eagles: While this may not tilt the attention of many, the Eagles are heating up and they could be competing for the seventh seed in the NFC Playoffs. Why will that matter? Well, the LA Rams may face the Eagles in the post-season, that’s why. And if the 49ers improve, they will be competing with Philadelphia for a playoff berth.

Predicted score: Philadelphia Eagles 28 Washington 20

Green Bay Packers at Baltimore Ravens: The Baltimore Ravens loom on the horizon, and they are a rather unorthodox team to face this year. Their offense is incredibly run-oriented and will mix in the occasional pass play simply to keep defenses honest. The Packers are a team that is similar in their game planning as the Rams.  But on this week, the Ravens take the upper hand.

Predicted score: Balt Ravens 26 Green Bay Packers 20

Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears: Curiously, the Minnesota Vikings could be competing in this game for the lead in the NFC North. Of course, that is incredibly dependant upon a wide variety of variables, such as beating the 49ers. But if they can find some success, this week will certainly be a huge game for them.

Predicted score: Minn Vikings 20 Chicago Bears 13