INSIDER
Lamar Jackson's 5-TD game fell just short of a perfect passer rating
Read full article: Lamar Jackson's 5-TD game fell just short of a perfect passer ratingLamar Jackson couldn’t have performed much better as a passer when he threw five TD passes, only five incompletions and no interceptions while throwing for 281 yards in a victory for Baltimore over Tampa Bay.
Lions top previously unbeaten Vikings 31-29 on late FG to cap NFC North thriller
Read full article: Lions top previously unbeaten Vikings 31-29 on late FG to cap NFC North thrillerJake Bates kicked a 44-yard field goal with 15 seconds left to lift the Detroit Lions to a 31-29 victory that handed the Minnesota Vikings their first loss in a back-and-forth game befitting of the NFL’s strongest division.
Lions sign DT Alim McNeill to $97 million, 4-year deal in franchise's latest investment
Read full article: Lions sign DT Alim McNeill to $97 million, 4-year deal in franchise's latest investmentThe Detroit Lions have decided to make defensive tackle Alim McNeill their latest investment, retaining a key player with a long-term deal.
Jared Goff throws 3 TD passes, Lions win 47-9 and hand Cowboys another lopsided home loss
Read full article: Jared Goff throws 3 TD passes, Lions win 47-9 and hand Cowboys another lopsided home lossJared Goff threw for 315 yards and three touchdowns after his completion streak ended on his first throw, and the Detroit Lions blew out Dallas 47-9.
Goff's perfect night and Daniels' fast start contribute to record pace for completion percentage
Read full article: Goff's perfect night and Daniels' fast start contribute to record pace for completion percentageJared Goff and Jayden Daniels have put up record-breaking performances in recent weeks when it comes to completing passes at a high rate.
Jared Goff sets NFL record completing all 18 of his passes in Lions' 42-29 win over Seahawks
Read full article: Jared Goff sets NFL record completing all 18 of his passes in Lions' 42-29 win over SeahawksJared Goff threw a perfect game, setting an NFL record by completing all 18 of his passes to help the Detroit Lions beat the Seattle Seahawks 42-29 Monday night.
Rookie QB Jayden Daniels leads Commanders to a record-setting performance
Read full article: Rookie QB Jayden Daniels leads Commanders to a record-setting performanceJayden Daniels did far more than just deliver the first breakthrough performance from this year’s heralded class of rookie quarterbacks.
Pro Picks: Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs will begin three-peat quest with a win over the Ravens
Read full article: Pro Picks: Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs will begin three-peat quest with a win over the RavensPatrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs will raise their championship banner and begin their quest to become the first team to three-peat in the Super Bowl era.
Russell Wilson, Justin Fields lead TD drives for Steelers in 24-17 loss to Lions in preseason finale
Read full article: Russell Wilson, Justin Fields lead TD drives for Steelers in 24-17 loss to Lions in preseason finaleRussell Wilson and Justin Fields led touchdown drives for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who lost 24-17 to the Detroit Lions in the preseason finale for both teams.
The NFL season begins this week. Here's a look at some of the big games and rules changes
Read full article: The NFL season begins this week. Here's a look at some of the big games and rules changesThe NFL season begins this week when the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs host the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night.
Packers QB Love agrees to terms on 4-year contract extension worth $220 million, AP source says
Read full article: Packers QB Love agrees to terms on 4-year contract extension worth $220 million, AP source saysA person familiar with the situation says Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love has agreed to terms on a four-year contract extension worth $220 million.
QB Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars agree to a 5-year, $275M contract extension, AP source says
Read full article: QB Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars agree to a 5-year, $275M contract extension, AP source saysA person familiar with the negotiations says Trevor Lawrence and the Jacksonville Jaguars have agreed to a five-year, $275 million contract extension that makes him one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in NFL history.
Lions and QB Jared Goff agree on $212M, 4-year extension with $170M guaranteed, AP source says
Read full article: Lions and QB Jared Goff agree on $212M, 4-year extension with $170M guaranteed, AP source saysA person familiar with the situation says the Detroit Lions and quarterback Jared Goff have agreed to a $212 million, four-year contract extension.
Failed 4th downs contribute to blown lead for Lions in NFC title game loss to 49ers
Read full article: Failed 4th downs contribute to blown lead for Lions in NFC title game loss to 49ersThe aggressiveness that characterized the turnaround for the Detroit Lions under coach Dan Campbell backfired at the worst possible time.
Watch Jared Goff’s hilarious prank on college football team in viral video
Read full article: Watch Jared Goff’s hilarious prank on college football team in viral videoBack in 2018, Goff showed up to a spring practice for the Ventura College football team in Ventura, California, and helped the coaches have a little fun with the team.
Lions-49ers game features 2 of the NFL's top 3 offenses, but San Francisco has big edge on defense
Read full article: Lions-49ers game features 2 of the NFL's top 3 offenses, but San Francisco has big edge on defenseThe San Francisco 49ers are back in a familiar spot facing a Detroit Lions team new to this stage.
Jared Goff throws 2 TD passes, Lions advance to NFC title game with 31-23 win over Buccaneers
Read full article: Jared Goff throws 2 TD passes, Lions advance to NFC title game with 31-23 win over BuccaneersJared Goff threw two touchdown passes and the Detroit Lions beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 31-23 in a divisional-round playoff game, lifting the long-suffering franchise into the NFC championship for the first time in 32 years and just the second time in franchise history.
Jared Goff leads Lions to first playoff win in 32 years, 24-23 over Matthew Stafford and the Rams
Read full article: Jared Goff leads Lions to first playoff win in 32 years, 24-23 over Matthew Stafford and the RamsJared Goff threw for a touchdown and completed a game-sealing first down against the team that cast him away, and the Detroit Lions won a playoff game for the first time in 32 years, beating Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams 24-23.
Playoff-bound Lions lose record-breaking rookie Sam LaPorta to knee injury in 30-20 win over Vikings
Read full article: Playoff-bound Lions lose record-breaking rookie Sam LaPorta to knee injury in 30-20 win over VikingsSam LaPorta had a 2-yard touchdown catch midway through the first quarter but later limped off the field with a knee injury in the Detroit Lions' 30-20 win over the Minnesota Vikings.
Lions take issue with officials after potential winning 2-point pass is negated by penalty
Read full article: Lions take issue with officials after potential winning 2-point pass is negated by penaltyThe Detroit Lions have been left feeling as a victory was taken away when a potential winning 2-point conversion was negated by officials.
Cowboys deny Lions on 2-point try for 20-19 win to extend home win streak to 16
Read full article: Cowboys deny Lions on 2-point try for 20-19 win to extend home win streak to 16CeeDee Lamb had a 92-yard touchdown catch, and Dallas denied the Detroit Lions in a crazy sequence of 2-point conversion attempts in the final seconds of the Cowboys' 20-19 victory.
NFL players face pressure as never before, in the digital-age surge of betting and fantasy
Read full article: NFL players face pressure as never before, in the digital-age surge of betting and fantasyThe intensity of NFL fandom that increased with the surge of fantasy football has spiked further in the age of online betting.
Jared Goff throws 5 TD passes as NFC North-leading Lions bounce back, beat Broncos 42-17
Read full article: Jared Goff throws 5 TD passes as NFC North-leading Lions bounce back, beat Broncos 42-17Jared Goff matched a career high with five touchdown passes, three to rookie tight end Sam LaPorta, and the Detroit Lions routed the Denver Broncos 42-17.
Pro Picks: Steelers will top Patriots in a close, low-scoring game featuring two struggling offenses
Read full article: Pro Picks: Steelers will top Patriots in a close, low-scoring game featuring two struggling offensesMitch Trubisky gets another chance to prove he can be a starting quarterback, stepping in for the injured Kenny Pickett to lead the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday night.
Sam LaPorta has career day for Lions, Saints QB Derek Carr hurt as Detroit wins 33-28
Read full article: Sam LaPorta has career day for Lions, Saints QB Derek Carr hurt as Detroit wins 33-28Sam LaPorta had career highs of nine catches for 140 yards, including an early touchdown and a crucial first-down snag in the final minutes, and the Detroit Lions beat the reeling New Orleans Saints 33-28.
Love ties career high with 3 TD passes, leads Packers to 29-22 win over NFC North-leading Lions
Read full article: Love ties career high with 3 TD passes, leads Packers to 29-22 win over NFC North-leading LionsJordan Love set the tone with a 53-yard pass to Christian Watson on the first snap and finished with a career-high-tying three touchdowns, leading the Green Bay Packers to a 29-22 win over the NFC North-leading Detroit Lions on Thursday.
NFC North-leading Lions rally from 12-point deficit late to beat Bears 31-26 on Montgomery's TD run
Read full article: NFC North-leading Lions rally from 12-point deficit late to beat Bears 31-26 on Montgomery's TD runDavid Montgomery's go-ahead 1-yard touchdown run with 29 seconds left against his former team lifted the Detroit Lions to a 31-26 comeback victory over Justin Fields and the Chicago Bears.
Goff, Lions outlast Herbert, Chargers 41-38 on Patterson's last-second field goal
Read full article: Goff, Lions outlast Herbert, Chargers 41-38 on Patterson's last-second field goalJared Goff threw for 333 yards and two touchdowns, Riley Patterson kicked a 41-yard, game-winning field goal as time expired, and the Detroit Lions prevailed in a 41-38 shootout over the Los Angeles Chargers.
Lions lean on Jahmyr Gibbs' legs, Jared Goff's arm in 26-14 win over offensively challenged Raiders
Read full article: Lions lean on Jahmyr Gibbs' legs, Jared Goff's arm in 26-14 win over offensively challenged RaidersRookie Jahmyr Gibbs ran for a season-high 152 yards and a touchdown, Jared Goff threw for 272 yards with a score, and the Detroit Lions beat the Las Vegas Raiders 26-14.
Lions hope Jared Goff bounces back, Raiders welcome return of Jimmy Garoppolo on Monday night
Read full article: Lions hope Jared Goff bounces back, Raiders welcome return of Jimmy Garoppolo on Monday nightJared Goff has been more than a stopgap quarterback for the Detroit Lions since they acquired him and three draft picks from the Los Angeles Rams in a blockbuster trade.
Pro Picks: Lions get another win in Lambeau after ending Aaron Rodgers' career with the Packers
Read full article: Pro Picks: Lions get another win in Lambeau after ending Aaron Rodgers' career with the PackersThe Detroit Lions are going back to Lambeau Field for the first time since ending Aaron Rodgers’ career in Green Bay.
Lions spoil Chiefs' celebration of Super Bowl title by rallying for a 21-20 win in the NFL's opener
Read full article: Lions spoil Chiefs' celebration of Super Bowl title by rallying for a 21-20 win in the NFL's openerThe Detroit Lions rallied for a 21-20 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs to ruin the Super Bowl champions' celebration on the NFL's opening night.
Pro Picks: Mahomes, Chiefs up for a tough task vs. Lions
Read full article: Pro Picks: Mahomes, Chiefs up for a tough task vs. LionsThe Kansas City Chiefs will have Patrick Mahomes under center after they raise their championship banner and embark on a quest to become the first team to repeat in nearly two decades.
STAT WATCH: Shedeur Sanders' passing numbers best for FBS first-timer, and he's just getting started
Read full article: STAT WATCH: Shedeur Sanders' passing numbers best for FBS first-timer, and he's just getting startedCollege football's top statistical performances in Week 1 begins with Colorado's Shedeur Sanders.
Lions take Tennessee QB Hooker on busy 2nd day of NFL draft
Read full article: Lions take Tennessee QB Hooker on busy 2nd day of NFL draftThe Detroit Lions had a slew of selections entering the NFL draft and took advantage of those assets — and they may have found their quarterback of the future in Tennessee’s Hendon Hooker.
Cowboys lean on defense in Prescott’s return, top Lions 24-6
Read full article: Cowboys lean on defense in Prescott’s return, top Lions 24-6Ezekiel Elliott ran for two 1-yard touchdowns and Dak Prescott threw for a score in his return from injury while the Dallas Cowboys leaned on their defense again in a 24-6 victory over the Detroit Lions.
Early season downturn in offense avoids Ravens, Dolphins
Read full article: Early season downturn in offense avoids Ravens, DolphinsThe downturn in offense from the first two weeks of the NFL season hasn’t touched all corners of the league with a handful of players and teams putting up staggering numbers.
Sean McVay, GM Les Snead extend deals with Rams through 2026
Read full article: Sean McVay, GM Les Snead extend deals with Rams through 2026Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead have agreed to contract extensions through the 2026 season, keeping the defending Super Bowl champions’ brain trust in place with lucrative new rewards.
Winless no more: Lions top Vikes 29-27 for 1st W in Week 13
Read full article: Winless no more: Lions top Vikes 29-27 for 1st W in Week 13Jared Goff threw an 11-yard touchdown pass to Amon-Ra St. Brown as time expired, lifting the previously winless Detroit Lions to a 29-27 win over the Minnesota Vikings.
Chubb runs for 130, Browns hold off winless Lions 13-10
Read full article: Chubb runs for 130, Browns hold off winless Lions 13-10Nick Chubb caught a touchdown pass and ran for 130 yards as the Cleveland Browns held on to avoid a season-wrecking upset and keep Detroit winless with a sloppy 13-10 victory over the Lions.
Stafford throws 3 TD passes, Rams edge Goff's Lions 28-19
Read full article: Stafford throws 3 TD passes, Rams edge Goff's Lions 28-19Matthew Stafford passed for 334 yards and three touchdowns against his former team, and Jalen Ramsey made an end zone interception on his 27th birthday with five minutes left in the Los Angeles Rams’ 28-19 victory over Jared Goff and the winless Detroit Lions.
49ers build 28-point lead, hold on for 41-33 win over Lions
Read full article: 49ers build 28-point lead, hold on for 41-33 win over LionsDre Greenlaw returned an interception for a touchdown to help the San Francisco 49ers score 17 points over two-plus minutes late in the first half and they held on for a 41-33 win over the Detroit Lions.
Jake Fromm leads Bills in 16-15 comeback victory over Lions
Read full article: Jake Fromm leads Bills in 16-15 comeback victory over LionsJake Fromm threw a 42-yard, fourth-down pass to rookie Marquez Stevenson to set up Tyler Bass’ 44-yard field goal with 15 seconds left in the Buffalo Bills’ 16-15 victory over the Detroit Lions on Friday night.
Spend, spend, spend on 2nd day of "legal tampering" in NFL
Read full article: Spend, spend, spend on 2nd day of "legal tampering" in NFL(AP Photo/Gary McCullough, File)For people wondering where is all the free-agent quarterback movement as the NFL's “legal tampering” period enters its second day, well, calm down. He started seven and played in nine games last season for Miami, throwing for 2,091 yards, 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions. He will be replaced as Tua Tagovailoa's backup by Brissett, who will get a one-year, $5 million deal in Miami. The Bengals also reached agreement with Pittsburgh safety Mike Hilton on a four-year, $24 million contract, also according to a person with knowledge of the deal. Kelly signed a three-year, $21 million deal exactly a year ago and started all 16 games at right tackle.
Tom Brady has denied 27 QBs in unparalleled playoff success
Read full article: Tom Brady has denied 27 QBs in unparalleled playoff successBrady is shooting for his seventh ring when he leads the Buccaneers (14-5) against the reigning champion Chiefs (16-2) in Super Bowl 55 on Sunday. Brady's postseason record includes a 33-11 mark, 14 conference championship appearances and 10 trips to the Super Bowl. If the Bucs dethrone the champs, Mahomes would become the sixth quarterback Brady has beaten multiple times in the playoffs. Although he’s not showing his age, 43, Brady will be the oldest to play in a Super Bowl, displacing Colts kicker Matt Stover, who was 42 in Super Bowl 44. Unlike Warner, he wasn't going to get ahead of himself and talk about anything but the Super Bowl title in front of him.
AP sources: Lions trade Stafford to LA for Goff, draft picks
Read full article: AP sources: Lions trade Stafford to LA for Goff, draft picksESPN first reported the swap, which will include the Rams' first-round picks in 2022 and 2023 along with their third-round pick this year. 1 overall draft picks will provide a fresh start for two durable starting quarterbacks who probably need a change of scenery. Stafford asked to be traded shortly after the current season ended with the Lions' third straight campaign with at least 10 losses. Los Angeles likely had to pay a premium in draft picks to persuade the Lions to take on Goff's deal. Shortly after last season, Stafford asked to be traded and spared from another rebuilding project.
Analysis: Backup QBs saw plenty of action in NFL playoffs
Read full article: Analysis: Backup QBs saw plenty of action in NFL playoffsJameis Winston threw a 56-yard trick-play touchdown pass to Tre’Quan Smith on his first playoff action after 76 regular-season games over six seasons. In his 72nd NFL game, Henne atoned for an end zone interception with two huge plays to allow the Chiefs to escape with a 22-17 win over the Browns. Rodgers and Tom Brady, making his 14th conference championship appearance in 21 seasons, square off next week at Lambeau Field. If this was it, Brees went out with a whimper: 134 yards passing and three interceptions in the worst playoff game of his career. The Chiefs forced a punt and Henne got the ball back with just over four minutes left.
Rams' defense struggles with injury hindering Donald
Read full article: Rams' defense struggles with injury hindering DonaldWithout Donald in peak form, the NFL’s top defense simply couldn’t slow down the league’s highest-scoring offense. The Green Bay Packers scored on their first five series and beat the Rams 32-18 in the NFC divisional playoffs. “I love Aaron Donald,” Rams coach Sean McVay said. Yet this heavyweight matchup between the Packers’ offense and the Rams’ defense was more like a mismatch for much of the day. You have to defend every inch as far as laterally.”The Rams also had some uncharacteristic mistakes on defense to help Green Bay out.
Rodgers, Packers beat Rams 32-18 to reach NFC title game
Read full article: Rodgers, Packers beat Rams 32-18 to reach NFC title gameRodgers threw two touchdown passes and also ran for a score as the top-seeded Green Bay Packers beat the Los Angeles Rams 32-18 in an NFC divisional playoff game Saturday. The Packers didn't allow any sacks despite playing without injured All-Pro left tackle David Bakhtiari, while Green Bay sacked Jared Goff four times. Rodgers called the Packers' offensive linemen “the stars of the game tonight.”“Definitely not happy,” Rams defensive tackle Michael Brockers said. For Green Bay, Dillon injured his quadriceps when he fumbled. UP NEXTThe Rams' season is over.
Jared Goff to start for Rams in Green Bay; Wolford inactive
Read full article: Jared Goff to start for Rams in Green Bay; Wolford inactiveThey're in complete accord this week, however: Goff is the best choice to lead the Los Angeles Rams in the playoffs. Goff will start the Rams' postseason game at Green Bay on Saturday, while John Wolford will be inactive one week after incurring a neck injury, McVay announced Thursday. After Goff had surgery on his broken right thumb Dec. 28, Wolford got the Rams' last two starts — even though Goff thought he was ready to play last week. McVay instead decided early in the week that Wolford would start, although he didn't announce his decision until shortly before kickoff. “I was extremely excited to have that chance in a big game up in Seattle,” Wolford said.
Friends as playoff foes: Packers' LaFleur faces Rams' McVay
Read full article: Friends as playoff foes: Packers' LaFleur faces Rams' McVay(AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur and Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay say their friendship and shared history shouldn't have much of an impact on their teams’ upcoming NFC divisional playoff matchup. The top-seeded Packers (13-3) host the Rams (11-6) on Saturday with an NFC championship game berth at stake. San Francisco’s head coach is Kyle Shanahan, who worked at Washington with Matt LaFleur and McVay from 2010-13. LaFleur was the quarterbacks coach on Quinn’s Atlanta staff from 2015-16 and worked for Mike Vrabel at Tennessee in 2018. They reunited in 2017 when McVay became the Rams’ head coach and hired LaFleur.
McVay: Rams expect Aaron Donald to play vs Packers
Read full article: McVay: Rams expect Aaron Donald to play vs Packers(AP Photo/Scott Eklund)LOS ANGELES – All-Pro defensive tackle Aaron Donald is expected to play for the Rams on Saturday in Green Bay after injuring his ribs in Los Angeles' playoff victory at Seattle. McVay said he doesn't expect to name a starting quarterback this week for the Rams' showdown with the top-seeded Packers (12-4), preferring to wait until game day for the second straight week. Donald left the game and went to the locker room, but eventually returned to watch the Rams' win from the sideline. “We'll be smart with him throughout the week,” McVay said. Rams left guard David Edwards also left with Achilles tendinitis.
Rams get better of division rivals, toppling Seahawks 30-20
Read full article: Rams get better of division rivals, toppling Seahawks 30-20They watched less than two weeks ago as the Seattle Seahawks loudly celebrated a division title the Rams felt they gave away. No team was better at limiting yards or points than the Rams (11-6) and they continued to torment Wilson and the Seahawks (12-5). The victory sent the Rams into next week’s divisional playoff round, likely at top-seeded Green Bay unless Chicago upsets New Orleans. His heart, his passion for the game is special,” Rams left tackle Andrew Whitworth said. Seahawks: will head into an offseason filled with questions after winning the division but experiencing another early playoff exit.
Brady and Bucs, plus Bills and Rams win NFL wild-card games
Read full article: Brady and Bucs, plus Bills and Rams win NFL wild-card gamesThe first tripleheader of NFL wild-card games saw Tom Brady extend his postseason record for victories to 31 with a 31-23 win for Tampa Bay at Washington on Saturday. After a quarter-century, the Bills got one of those triumphs that Brady collects — and they even figured out how to stop a Hail Mary. The previous playoff win was over Miami on Dec. 30, 1995. And it came in the Bills’ first home playoff game in 24 years, with a limited number of fans in attendance (6,700) for the first time this season. The Ravens averaged an NFL-best 191.9 yards rushing per game and their 3,071 yards rushing were third highest in NFL history.
The Latest: Rams surge to 30-13 lead over Seahawks in fourth
Read full article: The Latest: Rams surge to 30-13 lead over Seahawks in fourthThe Los Angeles Rams are leading the Seattle Seahawks 23-13 early in the fourth quarter. The Los Angeles Rams have taken a 20-10 halftime lead over the Seahawks in their wild card game at Seattle. Metcalf to cut the Los Angles Rams' lead to 13-10 in the second quarter of their wild card game. The Buffalo Bills are taking a 17-10 lead over Indianapolis into the fourth quarter at Buffalo. Washington won the middling NFC East despite a 7-9 record to earn a home wild card game.
Rodgers leads Pack to top of NFC after draft disappointment
Read full article: Rodgers leads Pack to top of NFC after draft disappointment(AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)The NFC playoff field features the usual cast of quarterbacks in Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees and Russell Wilson. Last Lombardi: Super Bowl 45, 31-25 over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Feb. 6, 2011, at Arlington, Texas. Last Lombardi: Super Bowl 48, 43-8 over the Denver Broncos on Feb. 2, 2014, at East Rutherford, N.J. Last year: No. The Bears’ leading tackler left in the first quarter of the Green Bay game with an elbow injury. DBs Buster Skrine, rookie Jaylon Johnson and Deon Bush missed the loss to Green Bay.
LA Rams' top-ranked defense still rolling as playoffs loom
Read full article: LA Rams' top-ranked defense still rolling as playoffs loomHe might find a moment after the Rams (10-6) finish their playoff run, which begins Saturday at Seattle. But Rams fans already appreciate a defense that topped the NFL in several important categories and excelled at nearly everything during a remarkable season. 1 in total yards allowed, yards passing allowed, passing TDs allowed, first downs allowed and points allowed while becoming the Rams' first top-ranked NFL defense in decades. “We're proud of the way we've competed,” Staley said Tuesday as the Rams began preparations for their trip to Seattle. ... LT Andrew Whitworth has a shot to return this week after tearing ligaments in his knee during the Rams' first meeting with Seattle in November.
Wolford, defense lead Rams past Arizona 18-7, into playoffs
Read full article: Wolford, defense lead Rams past Arizona 18-7, into playoffsLos Angeles Rams wide receiver Robert Woods, left, catches a pass against Arizona Cardinals middle linebacker Jordan Hicks (58) during the first half of an NFL football game in Inglewood, Calif., Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021. It ended with the inexperienced quarterback fearlessly leading the Los Angeles Rams back to the playoffs. And though Wolford capably did his part, everybody in the Rams' jubilant locker room realized they owed this achievement to a dominant defense that scored as many points as the Rams' offense — and a couple more than the Arizona Cardinals — in Los Angeles' 18-7 victory Sunday. Wolford passed for 231 yards and rushed for 56 more, producing many moments of excitement in place of injured Jared Goff. Wolford racked up 47 yards rushing in the first half — more than Goff managed in any game of his five-year career.
NFL races go down to the wire in AFC South and NFC East
Read full article: NFL races go down to the wire in AFC South and NFC East“We win this game, find a way to win, win the division. He's assured of repeating as NFL rushing champ, the first since Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson in 2006-07. Henry has a career-high 1,777 yards rushing and ran for 212 yards in his most recent game against the Texans. Ezekiel Elliott, despite a mediocre performance in 2020, needs 63 yards rushing for 1,000 this season, his fourth such output in five seasons. Baltimore (10-5) at Cincinnati (4-10-1)During their four-game winning streak, the Ravens have averaged 37 points and 233.3 yards rushing per game.
Cashing in: Rams QB Wolford to make high-profile NFL debut
Read full article: Cashing in: Rams QB Wolford to make high-profile NFL debutFILE - In this Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019 file photo, Los Angeles Rams quarterback John Wolford (9) gestures during an NFL preseason football game against the Denver Broncos in Los Angeles. Wolford will make his NFL debut for the Rams on Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021 against Arizona after nearly two full seasons as a backup in which he never took a snap. “It's a lot of hard work, and I'm confident in the time I've spent that has gotten me here. “I'm confident in John, but I'm also confident in the other 10 players around him. ... Los Angeles also activated LB Micah Kiser from injured reserve, but he won't play this week, McVay said.
Jared Goff to miss Rams' season finale after thumb surgery
Read full article: Jared Goff to miss Rams' season finale after thumb surgeryLos Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff (16) looks to pass against the Seattle Seahawks during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)LOS ANGELES – Jared Goff will miss the Los Angeles Rams' season finale against the Arizona Cardinals after undergoing surgery on his right thumb. Goff could return a week later if the Rams make the playoffs, coach Sean McVay said Monday night. Los Angeles will clinch a playoff spot with a victory, or if the Chicago Bears lose to Green Bay. Goff played the rest of the game with the injury, but had surgery to insert screws in his thumb on Monday.
Seahawks wrap up NFC West title with 20-9 win over Rams
Read full article: Seahawks wrap up NFC West title with 20-9 win over RamsSeattle Seahawks strong safety Jamal Adams (33) reacts to a play against the Los Angeles Rams during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)SEATTLE – The Seattle Seahawks claimed the NFC West title with a 20-9 win over the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, with Russell Wilson throwing a 13-yard TD pass to Jacob Hollister with 2:51 left for the clinching score. Seattle flustered Jared Goff, shut down the Rams' run game, and held Los Angeles (9-6) to a season low in points. Now, Los Angeles risks missing the playoffs entirely if it loses to the Cardinals and Chicago beats Green Bay next Sunday. Seahawks: Seattle closes the regular season facing San Francisco next Sunday in Glendale, Arizona.
Rams' Goff dislocates thumb, Jets' Gore has chest injury
Read full article: Rams' Goff dislocates thumb, Jets' Gore has chest injury(AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)Jared Goff popped his dislocated right thumb thumb back into place and kept playing. “It’s OK right now," said Goff, who was 23 of 42 for 224 yards and an interception in the Rams' 20-9 loss at Seattle on Sunday. In East Rutherford, New Jersey, Frank Gore ran his way to another career milestone and then was forced to watch the New York Jets' second win from the sideline. — Baltimore center Patrick Mekari left the Ravens' 27-13 win over the New York Giants with a back injury. — Carolina left tackle Trent Scott left early in the third quarter of the Panthers' 20-13 win over Washington with a shoulder injury and did not return.
Erase that 0!: Jets edge Rams 23-20, avoid winless season
Read full article: Erase that 0!: Jets edge Rams 23-20, avoid winless seasonAfter 51 weeks and 13 games without a win, the Jets finally earned the chance to celebrate with pride. The Jets (1-13) knew their 23-20 victory over the embarrassed Los Angeles Rams on Sunday was never pretty. Moments later, Darnold hit Gore with the short pass over the middle that allowed the Jets to run out the clock. It was an amazing feeling.”With two games left, New York might have ruined its chances at the No. Of the nine teams in NFL history to start 0-13, the Jets were the fourth to win in Week 15.
Akers runs wild, Newton benched as Rams rout Patriots 24-3
Read full article: Akers runs wild, Newton benched as Rams rout Patriots 24-3These Rams even looked good enough to contend for a chance at some actual Super Bowl redemption later this season. “We’ve got a lot of respect for them, but it’s a totally different year,” Rams coach Sean McVay said. New England managed only 220 total yards — just 62 in the second half with a series of misbegotten drives. Akers' yards mostly came in big chunks during the biggest rushing game by an NFL rookie this season and just the ninth 150-yard game against a Belichick-coached defense since 2000. But Young opened the second quarter with an interception by Donald's disruption up front, taking it all the way back for the third-year linebacker's first NFL touchdown.
Big plays help Dolphins beat Rams 28-17 in Tua's 1st start
Read full article: Big plays help Dolphins beat Rams 28-17 in Tua's 1st startHe entertained those along the bench by dancing after the Miami Dolphins' first touchdown, and greeted 5-foot-6 Jakeem Grant with a leaping chest bump to the face mask after another score. The early 33-yard scoring drive was the Dolphins' longest, as the big lead allowed them to keep Tagovailoa mostly under wraps. We tried to make him see a lot of different things, and for the most part it worked.”The Rams' defense received little support from their offense, though. “We heard a lot about the Rams' defense," Miami safety Eric Rowe said, “but they had to worry about our defense.”INJURIESTwo-time Rams Pro Bowl cornerback Jalen Ramsey became ill before the game and didn’t play. ANTHEMFifteen Rams players knelt during “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The Dolphins stayed in the locker room during the national anthem.
The Latest: Broncos top Chargers on Lock's last-play TD pass
Read full article: The Latest: Broncos top Chargers on Lock's last-play TD passThe Denver Broncos have completed a remarkable comeback against the Los Angeles Chargers, with a 31-30 victory on Drew Lock's 1-yard touchdown pass to K.J. Dalvin Cook scored four times for the Minnesota Vikings, who held on for a 28-22 victory over the Green Bay Packers. Cook has scored six touchdowns in two games against Green Bay this season. The Vikings and Green Bay Packers are tied 7-all in the final minute of the first quarter. This is shaping up to be a windy day in Green Bay.
Rams dominate matchup of tough defenses, beat Bears 24-10
Read full article: Rams dominate matchup of tough defenses, beat Bears 24-10Josh Reynolds and Gerald Everett caught touchdown passes from Jared Goff, and the Rams won a matchup of dominant defenses, beating the Bears 24-10 on Monday night. “We proved that we were the better defense today,” Floyd said after a six-tackle performance in his first game against Chicago since the Bears released him last offseason. After his first sack, Floyd jumped up and went toward the Bears sideline, shouting and gesticulating at the team that let him go. We’re just one tight unit right now.”The Rams led 10-3 at halftime after holding the Bears to 126 yards. ... TE Tyler Higbee was inactive with a hand injury, missing his second game since 2016.
Smith returns as Goff-led Rams beat Washington to get to 4-1
Read full article: Smith returns as Goff-led Rams beat Washington to get to 4-1Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Landover, Md. Smith played his first NFL game 693 days since breaking his right tibia and fibula, entering when new Washington starting quarterback Kyle Allen injured his left arm. “You watch guys like Aaron all the time and as effective as he is, you guys have no idea how impressive it is with all the attention he gets week after week,” Rams linebacker Troy Reeder said. Rivera said if Allen can play next week, Smith would back up and Haskins would again be inactive. UP NEXTThe Rams visit the 49ers next Sunday, while Washington is at the NFC East rival New York Giants.
Rams hold off Giants 17-9; Ramsey, Tate fight after game
Read full article: Rams hold off Giants 17-9; Ramsey, Tate fight after gameJared Goff hit Cooper Kupp for a 55-yard touchdown with 6:56 to play, and the Rams grinded out a 17-9 victory over New York on Sunday before the wild fight between Ramsey and Tate. Los Angeles managed 240 total yards and went nearly 45 minutes between its two touchdowns, but it was enough. Williams said he recognized the Giants' play call from earlier in the game, allowing him to anticipate the throw. Graham Gano kicked three field goals in the Giants’ first game in the Los Angeles area since 1994. Los Angeles had racked up at least 400 total yards in each of its first three games.
The Latest: Wentz has early interception against 49ers
Read full article: The Latest: Wentz has early interception against 49ers(AP Photo/Tony Avelar)The Latest on Week 4 in the NFL (all times EDT)___8:35 p.m.Carson Wentz has thrown his NFL-worst seventh interception of the season for the Philadelphia Eagles. ___7:05 p.m.Bills quarterback Josh Allen’s 1-yard sneak that gave Buffalo a 23-16 lead over Las Vegas early in the fourth quarter. ___7:20 p.m.Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen is back guiding the Bills offense after injuring his left shoulder late in the first half at Las Vegas. ___6:40 p.m.Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen headed to the locker room after falling on his left wrist. The high-scoring start to the 2020 NFL season continued Sunday with several games featuring lots of points and very little defense.
Bills rally to beat Rams 35-32 after blowing 25-point lead
Read full article: Bills rally to beat Rams 35-32 after blowing 25-point lead(AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. – Josh Allen might get the credit for saving the Buffalo Bills from a monumental second-half meltdown. “Yeah, probably just got too relaxed and that’s on me,” said Allen, whose five-touchdown outing (including one rushing) was clouded by two turnovers that led to Rams TDs. Jared Goff led the Rams to score on four consecutive drives, and LA took the lead on Darell Henderson’s 1-yard run with 4:30 remaining. Aaron Donald had two sacks and also forced an Allen fumble, which he recovered at the Bills 37. Bills: Make the first of three West Coast trips, playing at the Las Vegas Raiders next Sunday.