Rams Hold Off Seahawks’ Comeback to Win 21–19

Rams Hold Off Seahawks’ Comeback to Win 21–19

The Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Rams entered Week 11 with identical 7–2 records and aspirations for a successful postseason. Seattle aimed to leverage its newly developed run-heavy strategy to secure a victory against a formidable competitor. Conversely, the Rams, bolstered by quarterback Matthew Stafford and emerging star Davante Adams, sought to defend their home turf and maintain their prominence in the conference standings.

Following a suspenseful four quarters of play, the Rams emerged victorious with a narrow 21–19 win in a contest characterized by lengthy drives, pivotal turnovers, and crucial special teams moments.

First Quarter: Rams Take Control Early

The Rams commenced the game with an assertive and physical offensive drive. Stafford effectively blended short passes to Xavier Smith and Kyren Williams. Williams then broke free for an impressive 30-yard dash into the red zone. Although Seattle managed a goal-line stand, the ensuing play saw Sam Darnold throw an interception that was returned to the 3-yard line. Williams subsequently powered his way in from the 1-yard line to give the Rams a 7–0 lead.

Seattle responded swiftly with a series of motion plays and quick passes to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Jason Myers then nailed a 57-yard field goal, narrowing the Rams’ lead to 7–3.

Los Angeles answered immediately. Williams continued to push the ball, while Stafford adeptly worked the sidelines, culminating in a 34-yard run by Williams down to the 1. Stafford then connected with Adams for a short touchdown pass. At the conclusion of the first quarter, the Rams led 14–3.

Second Quarter: Seattle Cuts Into the Lead

Seattle discovered its rhythm in the second quarter. Running backs Kenneth Walker and Zach Charbonnet alternated carries to advance the ball on the ground, while Darnold executed short, conservative passes to tight end Anthony Barner and Smith-Njigba. The drive stalled once again in the red zone, but Myers converted a 30-yard field goal, reducing the Rams' advantage to 14–6.

The Seahawks' defense then compelled a rapid punt by disrupting a screen pass and tightening their coverage scheme.

Following this, Seattle embarked on another effective drive. Walker found success on the outside with substantial gains, Charbonnet powered through the interior, and Smith-Njigba made an impressive catch along the sideline. Yet again, the Rams’ defense thwarted another scoring opportunity in the red zone, forcing Myers to convert a 22-yard field goal just before halftime, further shrinking the Rams' lead to 14–9.

Third Quarter: Turnovers Slow Both Offenses

The third quarter was marked by a series of errors. Darnold initiated the period with a deep throw that was intercepted by a Rams defensive player. Shortly thereafter, Puka Nacua caught a pass but was promptly stripped of the ball after a tackle, allowing Seattle to recover the fumble.

With excellent field position, the Seahawks relied on Walker and quick passes to Barner. However, the Rams continued to hold firm defensively, stifling yet another drive inside the 20-yard line. Myers successfully converted his fourth field goal, a 29-yarder, narrowing the score to 14–12.

Both defenses maintained their dominance throughout the quarter. Seattle halted a run behind the line of scrimmage, while Los Angeles intercepted another deep throw from Darnold. Neither team could find the end zone again, and the Rams entered the fourth quarter with a slight 14–12 advantage.

Fourth Quarter: Rams Pull Ahead While Seahawks Rally

The Rams commenced the final quarter with a precise and methodical drive. Williams gained 10 yards, advancing the ball to the 6-yard line, after which Stafford completed a short touchdown pass to tight end Colby Parkinson. With the successful extra point, Los Angeles extended its lead to 21–12.

Seattle responded with its most effective series of the game. Darnold initiated a no-huddle offense, quickly targeting passes to Smith-Njigba, Walker, and Cooper Kupp. He managed to scramble for a crucial first down, followed by Walker’s strong runs leading to a touchdown from the 1-yard line. Myers’ extra point attempt reduced the Rams' lead to 21–19.

In an effort to control the clock, the Rams employed a series of runs, concluding with a punt that positioned Seattle deep in their own territory at the 1-yard line.

Darnold orchestrated one final offensive push from the confines of his own end zone. Quick passes to Barner, Charbonnet, Smith-Njigba, and Kupp advanced the ball near midfield. With only one second remaining, Myers prepared to attempt a 61-yard field goal for the win. His kick had sufficient height but ultimately fell short.

What It Means

With this victory, the Rams improved their record to 8–2, showcasing a well-rounded offense complemented by a defense adept at generating turnovers. Los Angeles demonstrated its capacity to navigate challenging games against playoff-caliber opponents.

Seattle’s record fell to 7–3. Its run-first strategy kept the contest competitive, and Myers successfully converted field goals throughout the game until the final kick. Nevertheless, turnovers and missed opportunities in the red zone cost the Seahawks a vital road victory. Both teams will now turn their attention to Week 12 and the challenges that lie ahead.