Tue Dec 31 01:30:00 UTC 2024: **Rams Clinch NFC West Title Thanks to Unlikely Tiebreaker**
Los Angeles, CA – In a stunning turn of events, the Los Angeles Rams clinched the NFC West division title on Sunday, despite not playing a game themselves. Their victory hinged on a complex tiebreaker—strength of victory—and a series of wins by other teams.
The Rams’ improbable win came down to the wire. They needed wins from the Bengals, Bills, Vikings, Browns, Commanders, and 49ers to secure the division over the Seattle Seahawks. A string of victories, culminating in a dramatic overtime win for the Washington Commanders against the Atlanta Falcons, secured the Rams’ place in the playoffs.
This marks the fourth NFC West title for the Rams under coach Sean McVay, and their sixth playoff appearance in his eight seasons. The strength of victory tiebreaker, rarely used in the NFL, has now been applied against the Seahawks twice in the last two years, eliminating Seattle from playoff contention both times. This unusual circumstance leaves the Seahawks facing a frustrating end to the season.
While the Rams’ Week 18 matchup against the Seahawks is now meaningless for the division standings, it gives the Rams the opportunity to rest key players before the postseason begins. The Rams’ road to the Super Bowl, a destination they’ve reached twice previously under McVay’s leadership, is now officially paved.
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