The Seattle Seahawks are heading to the NFC Championship game with serious momentum after dismantling the San Francisco 49ers. Now, they face a familiar foe-the Los Angeles Rams-with a Super Bowl berth on the line. One division rival down, one to go.
And while the Rams have been firing on all cylinders offensively under Sean McVay and Matthew Stafford, this matchup might not be as lopsided as some expect. In fact, the Seahawks’ defense could be the exact kind of challenge the Rams don’t want to see right now.
Let’s break it down.
A Clash of Strengths: Seattle’s Run Defense vs. LA’s Ground Game
The Rams have built one of the most efficient ground attacks in football, thanks in large part to the one-two punch of Kyren Williams and rookie Blake Corum. They led the league in success rate on designed runs during the regular season-essentially meaning when they ran the ball by design, it usually worked.
But here’s the twist: Seattle’s defense led the NFL in stopping those very same plays. They ranked first in defensive success rate against designed runs. That’s not just good-it’s a direct counter to what the Rams want to do offensively.
So while LA has been able to control the tempo and open up their play-action game with a dominant run game, Seattle might be uniquely equipped to throw a wrench into that plan. If the Seahawks can bottle up the run early, it forces Stafford and the Rams into more predictable passing situations-and that’s where things could get dicey for LA.
The Pass Rush Factor
Seattle’s defensive front has been quietly menacing, and that could spell trouble for a Rams offensive line that’s looked vulnerable in recent weeks. If the Seahawks can dictate the early downs and push the Rams into obvious passing situations, they’ll unleash a pass rush that’s capable of making Stafford uncomfortable-and potentially forcing mistakes.
It’s a classic playoff formula: stop the run, pin your ears back, and pressure the quarterback. Seattle has the tools to do all three.
Offense Still a Question, But Defense Could Carry the Load
There are still some question marks about the Seahawks’ offense heading into this one. Sam Darnold will need to avoid costly mistakes and find a rhythm against a Rams defense that’s been solid all year. But this game feels like it’s going to be decided on the other side of the ball.
Mike MacDonald’s defense has been one of the most disciplined and effective units in football this season. Now he gets to match wits with McVay, one of the most innovative offensive minds in the game. It’s the kind of chess match that defines playoff football.
Championship Weekend’s Must-Watch Matchup
This isn’t just a game-it’s a heavyweight bout between two teams that know each other well and match up in fascinating ways. The Seahawks’ defense is built to slow down exactly what the Rams do best. And in a league where offense often gets the spotlight, this could be the weekend where defense steals the show.
Seattle’s path to the Super Bowl runs through a familiar opponent. And if their defense plays to its potential, they might just be the perfect spoiler to LA’s high-powered plans.