The Rams came into the season as the favorites to win the NFC West after claiming the division title – and a Super Bowl ring – a year ago. The 49ers were close behind as the second favorite, followed by the Cardinals and Seahawks.
Fast-forward to Week 10 and the standings look nothing like the projection based on pre-season betting odds. After the Rams lost to the Buccaneers on Sunday, they dropped to 3-5 on the year. The Seahawks took down the Cardinals, 31-21, to pull further ahead in the division standings. The 49ers, meanwhile, were off, so they remain 4-4 after nine weeks.
Here’s an updated look at the NFC West entering Week 10.
- Seahawks: 6-3 (next: at TB)
- 49ers: 4-4 (next: vs. LAC)
- Rams: 3-5 (next: vs. ARI)
- Cardinals: 3-6 (next: at LAR)
This is a pivotal week for the division with all four teams in action. The Rams-Cardinals game will go a long way toward determining whether either team will contend for A) a playoff spot and B) possibly the division title.
If the Cardinals lose and fall to 3-7, they might need to win out to make the postseason. If the Rams lose and fall to 3-6, their season won’t be over but the sense of urgency and panic will absolutely shoot through the roof.
The Seahawks and 49ers face legitimate tests this week, too, especially with the Seahawks having to go all the way across the country to face the Bucs in the 1 p.m. ET window. They could conceivably hold a 2.5-game lead over the rest of the division if they win and the 49ers lose.
I don’t think anyone outside of Seattle – or maybe in Seattle – could’ve seen that coming.