The Los Angeles Rams had just over a 50/50 chance of making the playoffs going into their game against the New Orleans Saints on Thursday. But Los Angeles is significantly closer to a postseason berth after winning their fifth straight game, 30-22, over New Orleans.
The playoff model from The New York Times indicates that the Rams currently have a 69 percent chance of making the playoffs.
Los Angeles prevailed thanks to impressive performances from their breakout players, receiver Puka Nacua scoring 164 receiving yards and a touchdown and running back Kyren Williams scoring 104 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford of the Rams finished with two touchdown passes and 328 yards, both in the first half of the game. He connected with Demarcus Robinson shortly before the half and Nacua early in the first quarter to give Los Angeles a 17–7 advantage.
Rams lead by as much as twenty-three points. With quarterback Derek Carr accounting for 319 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception on the day, New Orleans' offense regained some life in the fourth quarter. Carr connected with Juwan Johnson and A.T. Perry for touchdowns, bringing the team within one score.
To secure the victory, Los Angeles managed to recover an onside kick and run out the clock.