Rams Dominate Vikings 27-9 in Wild Card Playoff Victory

GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Los Angeles Rams secured a decisive 27-9 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Monday night’s Wild Card playoff game at State Farm Stadium, propelled by a dominant defensive performance and a strong showing from quarterback Matthew Stafford.

The Rams’ defense tied an NFL playoff record with nine sacks, including two by defensive end Aaron Donald, while Stafford completed 19 of 27 passes for 209 yards and two touchdowns. The win advances Los Angeles to the Divisional Round, where they will face the Philadelphia Eagles next Sunday at noon Pacific time on NBC/Peacock.

Los Angeles set the tone early, scoring on their first drive with a 5-yard touchdown pass from Stafford to Kyren Williams. The Rams extended their lead to 10-0 with a 34-yard field goal by kicker Joshua Karty late in the first quarter. Minnesota responded with a 34-yard field goal by Will Reichard in the second quarter, but the Rams’ defense continued to dominate, forcing multiple turnovers and limiting the Vikings’ offense.

A pivotal moment came when outside linebacker Jared Verse returned a fumble 57 yards for a touchdown, marking the first score of his career. Stafford later connected with tight end Tyler Higbee for a 13-yard touchdown, giving the Rams a 24-3 lead by halftime. Karty added a 44-yard field goal in the third quarter, and despite a 26-yard touchdown pass from Sam Darnold to T.J. Hockenson, the Vikings never threatened the Rams’ lead.

Higbee exited the game in the first half with a chest injury, while cornerback Cobie Durant left with a thigh injury. Both were ruled out for the remainder of the game. The Rams’ defense held strong, with Donald and Verse combining for a critical sack late in the fourth quarter to seal the victory.

The win marks the Rams’ first playoff victory since their Super Bowl LVI triumph in 2022. They now turn their attention to the Eagles, who finished the regular season with a 14-3 record and the NFC‘s top seed.