Keys to a victory for Cardinals over Rams in Week 14

A look at what the Cardinals need to do Monday night to ensure their 11th win of the season.

Here we go. The much-anticipated rematch between the Los Angeles Rams and the Arizona Cardinals will be showcased Monday night for a national audience. In their first meeting, Arizona soundly defeated Los Angeles 37-20. This match-up, however, will have a few different faces lining up for both sides.

For the Rams, they recently added three-time Pro Bowler, Odell Beckham Jr, to replace wideouts DeSean Jackson who was released, and Robert Woods who sustained a torn ACL. Running back Sony Michel replaces Darrel Henderson as the lead back, as Henderson landed on the COVID list, forcing him to miss Monday night’s game.

For the Cardinals, this time they will be without All-Pro defensive end J.J. Watt and tight end Maxx Williams, both of whom sustained injuries. Arizona traded for Zach Ertz to replace Williams. And, the status of running back Chase Edmonds remains a game-day decision.

Both teams have plenty to play for.  An Arizona win or tie would secure their first playoff berth since 2015 and would all but guarantee a division title. A win by the Rams would keep them in the divisional title hunt and maintain their mid-level seeding in the overall conference standings. 

Looking back on their Week 4 match-up, there is plenty the Cardinals can focus on to improve their record to 11-2. Here are a few keys to watch for.

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