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The Rams had an emotional week, with wildfires raging through Los Angeles, forcing their wild card matchup with the Vikings to be moved to Arizona.
But head coach Sean McVay’s squad responded, as LA led Minnesota 24-3 at halftime.
The Los Angeles defense relentlessly pressured San Darnold, picking up six sacks in the first two quarters. None was more significant than Ahkel Witherspoon’s sack midway through the second quarter, which was picked up by first-round pick Jared Verse and rolled 57 yards down the field for a touchdown.
But the offense also took off after some poor results in the regular season. Three of Los Angeles’ first eight drives went for at least 20 yards, as the Rams scored a touchdown and a field goal on their first two drives.
Then, after a failed fourth-and-2 late in the quarter by Minnesota, quarterback Matthew Stafford scored his second touchdown of the night — this one to Davis Allen for a 13-yard score to put Los Angeles up by 21.
Stafford finished the first half 14-of-20 for 154 yards with two TDs and no picks.
Kyren Williams is averaging 7.4 yards per carry, as he gained 37 yards on just five attempts.
On the other hand, Darnold is 13-of-16 for 113 yards with an interception. Justin Jefferson has five catches for 58 yards.
Tyler Higbee leads the way with 5 catches for 58 yards, but is doubtful to return with a chest injury. He recently returned from a torn ACL suffered in last year’s wild card game against Detroit. Higbee caught all five of his targets for 58 yards through Monday’s kickoff, signaling his importance in the game plan.
Additionally, Rams defensive tackle Bobby Brown is questionable with a shoulder injury.
If they need a spark, the Vikings will get it to start the second half.
