When two NFC West rivals square off, the stakes are always high. The Los Angeles Rams vs Arizona Cardinals match player stats not only highlight individual performances but also reveal the underlying story of this divisional battle. From star quarterbacks to defensive playmakers, every player’s contribution plays a vital role in determining who gains the upper hand in this fierce rivalry. Let’s break down the numbers, performances, and key takeaways from this matchup.
Quarterback Performances
At the heart of any Rams vs Cardinals game is the quarterback duel. Matthew Stafford, the experienced leader of the Rams, faced off against the young and dynamic Kyler Murray of the Cardinals.
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Matthew Stafford (Rams): Stafford’s stats showed a strong command of the offense. His passing yards, completion percentage, and touchdown-to-interception ratio highlighted his ability to keep the Rams’ aerial attack consistent. Despite occasional pressure from the Cardinals’ defensive front, Stafford demonstrated poise in the pocket, connecting with his receivers in critical moments.
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Kyler Murray (Cardinals): Murray, known for his dual-threat ability, showcased his mobility and accuracy. The Los Angeles Rams vs Arizona Cardinals match player stats revealed that Murray contributed not just through passing but also by extending plays with his legs. His rushing yards complemented his passing game, keeping the Rams’ defense guessing and forcing them to respect his versatility.
Wide Receiver Contributions
The receiving corps from both teams were instrumental in shaping the outcome.
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Rams Receivers: Cooper Kupp, always a centerpiece of the Rams’ offense, posted strong numbers once again. His receptions, yards after catch, and ability to find the end zone gave Stafford a reliable target. Emerging talents like Puka Nacua or veteran depth players also chipped in with crucial catches, spreading the defense thin.
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Cardinals Receivers: Marquise “Hollywood” Brown provided speed and separation, creating big-play opportunities for Murray. Tight end Zach Ertz, with his experience, served as a steady option across the middle. Together, the Cardinals’ receiving unit demonstrated balance, although consistency in the red zone remained an area to improve.
Running Back Impact
Ground games often tilt the momentum in close NFC West clashes.
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Rams Running Backs: Cam Akers and Kyren Williams combined to provide both power and agility. The Los Angeles Rams vs Arizona Cardinals match player stats for the backfield showed effective yards per carry and valuable contributions in short-yardage situations. Williams’ role in pass protection and as a receiving back further added to the Rams’ offensive versatility.
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Cardinals Running Backs: James Conner continued to be a workhorse, grinding tough yards and breaking tackles. His red zone efficiency and ability to sustain drives with consistent runs were vital. The stats highlighted his importance as not just a rusher but also as a physical tone-setter for the Cardinals’ offense.
Defensive Playmakers
Games between the Rams and Cardinals are often decided by which defense can create turnovers or pressure the opposing quarterback.
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Rams Defense: Aaron Donald dominance was once again on display in the match player stats. His quarterback pressures, tackles for loss, and sacks disrupted Murray’s rhythm. Linebackers contributed with tackles in open space, while defensive backs like Jalen Ramsey (if active in the matchup) locked down key receivers, minimizing explosive plays.
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Cardinals Defense: Budda Baker stood out in the defensive stats, showing his versatility in both run support and pass coverage. The Cardinals’ pass rushers contributed sacks and hurries, though containing Stafford for four quarters proved challenging. Still, their ability to force third-down stops gave Arizona chances to stay competitive.
Special Teams Contributions
Special teams can be the hidden difference in divisional rivalries. The stats from this matchup revealed impactful plays:
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Rams kicker Matt Gay (or his replacement in current rosters) nailed critical field goals, ensuring the Rams capitalized on scoring opportunities.
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Cardinals’ return specialists added field position advantages, while their kicker maintained consistency in pressure situations.
Key Takeaways from the Player Stats
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Efficiency in the Red Zone: Both teams showed varying levels of execution inside the 20-yard line. The Rams capitalized more effectively, while the Cardinals struggled with stalled drives.
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Turnover Battle: The Los Angeles Rams vs Arizona Cardinals match player stats highlighted that turnovers were a deciding factor. Whichever defense forced interceptions or fumbles gained the upper hand in momentum.
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Balance of Offense: The Rams displayed a balanced approach with both passing and rushing yards contributing significantly. The Cardinals leaned more heavily on Murray’s dual-threat ability, which kept them competitive but also made their offense predictable at times.
Read More: New England Patriots vs Jacksonville Jaguars Match Player Stats
Final Thoughts
The Los Angeles Rams vs Arizona Cardinals match player stats paint a picture of a classic NFC West rivalry: physical, unpredictable, and filled with individual brilliance. Stafford’s steady arm, Kupp’s reliability, and Donald’s defensive havoc showcased why the Rams remain a formidable team. Meanwhile, Murray’s athleticism, Conner’s toughness, and Baker’s defensive leadership kept the Cardinals in the fight.
For fans, these stats go beyond numbers; they capture the essence of why Rams vs Cardinals games remain must-watch football. Each play, each yard, and each standout performance adds to the narrative of a rivalry that continues to shape the NFC West landscape.
