Seahawks vs. Rams: NFC West Clash Carries Heavyweight Implications
The NFC West is coming down to the wire, and Thursday night’s showdown between the 11-3 Seattle Seahawks and the 11-3 Los Angeles Rams is about as big as it gets in December. With playoff seeding, division bragging rights, and a potential No. 1 seed in the NFC all on the line, this isn’t just a rematch-it’s a high-stakes battle that could shape the entire postseason landscape.
And while the 10-4 49ers are lurking just behind, this game is the main event. Winner takes pole position in the division.
Loser? They're staring at the long road-literally.
The kind of road that likely means three straight playoff games away from home just to reach the Super Bowl. It’s not impossible, but history tells us it’s a steep hill to climb.
A Rematch with Receipts
Back in Week 11, the Rams edged out the Seahawks 21-19 in Los Angeles. That game was a rollercoaster, largely defined by Sam Darnold’s four-interception meltdown.
And yet, despite the turnovers, Seattle had a shot to steal the win at the buzzer. Jason Myers lined up for a 61-yard field goal that had the distance in spirit but fell short and wide right on the scoreboard.
That loss still stings, but it also tells us something: even when Seattle plays poorly, they’re never truly out of it. But let’s be clear-another outing like that from Darnold won’t cut it this time around. Seattle needs sharper execution from its quarterback if they want to flip the script in the rematch.
Key Personnel Shifts
This game won’t be a carbon copy of the first meeting. Both teams are dealing with changes that could swing the outcome.
For Seattle, the defense gets a boost with the return of Julian Love and Jarran Reed-two veterans who bring leadership and physicality. That should help against a Rams offense that thrives on rhythm and timing. However, the Seahawks will be without left tackle Charles Cross, a significant loss in protecting Darnold’s blind side against a Rams pass rush that can still get after it.
Los Angeles is facing its own injury concerns. Star receiver Davante Adams is likely out, and defensive lineman Braden Fiske may also miss the game. That’s a big hit to both sides of the ball, especially when you’re going into a hostile environment like Lumen Field.
Stafford’s MVP Push Meets Seattle’s Defensive Surge
Matthew Stafford has been in the MVP conversation all season, but his performance against Seattle earlier this year wasn’t his finest. That said, he’s still one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the league, and he’ll be looking to make a statement in prime time.
Thursday night’s forecast calls for rain and wind-classic December in Seattle. That could make things tricky for Stafford, especially against a Seahawks defense that’s been on a tear. They’ve allowed just 25 points combined over their last two games and haven’t given up more than 24 since Week 12.
Seattle hasn’t beaten Stafford since he joined the Rams in 2021. If they want to change that, their defense will need to keep applying pressure, force mistakes, and make life uncomfortable for the veteran QB.
The Stakes Are Clear
This isn’t just a marquee matchup-it’s a potential turning point for both teams. The winner gets a clear path to the division crown and possibly the NFC’s top seed.
The loser? They’ll need help and a whole lot of road grit to make a deep playoff run.
And yes, there’s a little extra flavor this time around. Seattle will be unveiling their new Rivalries uniforms under the lights at Lumen Field. It’s a fresh look for a classic rivalry-and the perfect backdrop for a game with this much on the line.
Game Day Details
- Date: Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025
- Kickoff: 5:15 p.m. PT
- Location: Lumen Field, Seattle, WA
- Broadcast: Prime Video
- Announcers: Al Michaels, Kirk Herbstreit (Sideline: Kaylee Hartung)
- Radio: Steve Raible and Dave Wyman (Seattle), Kate Scott and Ryan Harris (Westwood One)
How to Watch (Without Prime Video)
If you’re in the Seattle area and don’t have Prime Video, you’re still in luck. The game will be broadcast locally on FOX 13 Seattle (KCPQ). For Rams fans in the Los Angeles area, tune into KTTV FOX-11.
And here’s a little-known workaround: the game will also stream for free on the Prime Video Twitch channel-no account required.
Seahawks 2025 Season Recap (So Far)
Seattle’s been through a gauntlet this season, and they’ve emerged as one of the NFC’s most complete teams. Here’s how they got to 11-3:
September
- Week 1: vs. 49ers - L 17-13
- Week 2: at Steelers - W 31-17
- Week 3: vs.
Saints - W 44-13
- Week 4: at Cardinals - W 23-20
October
- Week 5: vs.
Buccaneers - L 38-35
- Week 6: at Jaguars - W 20-12
- Week 7: vs. Texans - W 27-19
- Week 8: BYE
November
- Week 9: at Commanders - W 38-14
- Week 10: vs. Cardinals - W 44-22
- Week 11: at Rams - L 21-19
- Week 12: at Titans - W 30-24
- Week 13: vs. Vikings - W 26-0
December
- Week 14: at Falcons - W 37-9
- Week 15: vs. Colts - W 18-16
- Week 16: vs. Rams - Coming Up
Remaining Schedule
- Week 17: at Panthers (Dec. 28)
Bottom Line:
This is one of those games that defines a season.
Seahawks vs. Rams, under the lights, with everything on the line.
Buckle up-this one’s going to be a ride.