The Los Angeles Rams advanced in the NFL playoffs with a narrow 20-17 overtime victory over the Chicago Bears in the NFC divisional round. Safety Kamren Curl's crucial interception in overtime paved the way for the game-winning field goal. Pro Football Focus grades highlight contributions from unheralded defenders and key offensive performers.
The Los Angeles Rams edged out the Chicago Bears 20-17 in a tense NFC divisional round playoff game that extended into overtime. The Rams' defense proved decisive, with safety Kamren Curl securing an interception that halted Chicago's momentum and set up kicker Harrison Mevis for the winning field goal.
Pro Football Focus (PFF) analysis underscores the impact of several under-the-radar players. On defense, Curl earned the highest grade of 91.7, recording 10 tackles without a miss, one pressure as a blitzer, and stellar coverage: he allowed just three catches on five targets for 17 yards, including the pivotal pick and a pass breakup (PBU). Fellow safety Kamren Kinchens followed closely at 90.4, with six tackles, no misses, and coverage limiting opponents to two receptions on four targets for 10 yards plus a PBU. Linebacker Omar Speights posted 90.1, excelling in coverage with two PBUs; he came inches from interceptions on a touchdown pass to DJ Moore and a potential pick-six on fourth down near the goal line, though he collided with teammate Nate Landman.
Offensively, right guard Kevin Dotson, returning from injury, topped the charts at 91.3, allowing only one pressure in pass protection and earning a 93.5 run-blocking grade. Tight end Tyler Higbee, in limited action on eight snaps, graded 79.2 with a 27-yard reception on his lone target. Left tackle Alaric Jackson scored 71.9, strong in both pass protection (77.5) and run blocking. Running back Kyren Williams contributed 70.5, rushing for 87 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries—54 yards after contact, forcing three missed tackles—and catching four passes for 30 yards, though his pass blocking lagged at 48.0. Wide receiver Puka Nacua managed 69.6, catching five of 10 targets for 56 yards amid heavy defensive focus.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford struggled with a 42.2 grade, fumbling twice (24.5 in that category) and matching big-time throws with turnover-worthy plays at three, finishing with a 52.6% adjusted completion rate. EDGE rusher Jared Verse had a rough outing at 33.2, missing six of nine tackles and earning low marks in run defense (44.4). The Rams' win relied on collective defensive efforts to contain Bears quarterback Caleb Williams.
