Since their 41-10 defeat to the Cardinals in Arizona, the Rams have been looking for revenge in their pursuit of the postseason. In a hotly contested division race, both sides put up potent offenses using contrasting philosophies.
Once their receiving corps became healthy, the Rams used a quick passing attack as the basis of their offense. The return of Puka Nacua has led to successful results for not only the offense but the team as a whole. Nacua missed the week two matchup between these two franchises.
The Cardinals went in a separate direction with a devastating rushing attack. Star James Connor has achieved his second consecutive 1,000-yard season while rookie Trey Benson has averaged 4.6 yards per carry during his limited opportunities.
Despite being out of the playoff hunt, the Cardinals are looking to play spoiler and derail their division rivals’ ambitions for another NFC West title. However, Arizona’s desires have hit another roadblock as the Cardinals are preparing for a game-day scenario without Connor and Benson.
Both running backs appeared on the injury report after being limited all week, and they’re both questionable to play on Saturday.
With Arizona out of playoff contention, it will be a tough decision for Jonathan Gannon to risk the health of two top producers in a game that will not impact how his team’s season will end. With the recent devastating news regarding Houston’s Tank Dell, who suffered a season-ending injury that will most likely keep him out for at least the start of the 2025 season, coaches may be rethinking their approach to the final two games of the year.
If Connor and Benson are a no-go, it will be either DeeJay Dallas or Michael Carter leading the backfield on Saturday. They’ve combined for just 13 total carries this season.