Sports Betting Picks

Los Angeles Rams vs Philadelphia Eagles – NFL Divisional Playoffs Preview – Jan 19, 2025

The Los Angeles Rams (10-7) travel to Lincoln Financial Field to face the Philadelphia Eagles (14-3) on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 3:00 PM ET in the NFC Divisional Playoffs. The Eagles secured the NFC East title and a first-round bye, while the Rams earned their spot with a dominant 27-9 win over the Minnesota Vikings in the Wild Card round.

These teams met earlier this season, with Philadelphia claiming a decisive 37-20 victory. In that game, Saquon Barkley ran for a career-high 255 yards and two touchdowns, making him a focal point again for this rematch. Both teams bring playoff experience, with Philadelphia aiming for their second NFC Championship appearance in three seasons and the Rams chasing their third under Sean McVay.

Los Angeles Rams Preview – Resilient Run Fuels Playoff Push

The Rams overcame a slow start to the season, finishing with a 5-1 stretch to secure the NFC West crown. Matthew Stafford continues to lead the offense, throwing for 3,762 yards and 20 touchdowns during the regular season. In last week’s win over Minnesota, Stafford recorded a 117.7 passer rating with two touchdowns and no interceptions.

Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp remain key weapons in the passing game, while running back Kyren Williams contributes on the ground with 1,299 yards and 14 touchdowns this season. The Rams’ offensive line will face a tough challenge against Philadelphia’s top-ranked defense, which has excelled against both the pass and run.

On defense, Los Angeles matched an NFL playoff record with nine sacks in the Wild Card round. Kobie Turner, Byron Young, and Neville Gallimore were among the standouts, and the unit will need to apply similar pressure to slow Jalen Hurts and Barkley. The Rams rank sixth in the league in penalties, showcasing discipline in key moments.

Philadelphia Eagles Preview – Balanced Attack Eyes Title Run

The Eagles enter the playoffs as one of the NFL’s most complete teams. Jalen Hurts leads the offense with his dual-threat ability, complemented by Saquon Barkley’s explosive rushing attack. Barkley has been the centerpiece, including his standout performance against the Rams in November when he totaled 302 scrimmage yards.

A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith provide dynamic options in the passing game, though Brown has been limited in practice this week with a knee issue. The Eagles’ offensive line, anchored by Landon Dickerson and Cam Jurgens, will aim to control the trenches against Los Angeles’ aggressive front seven.

Defensively, Philadelphia led the NFL in total defense and turnover margin (+17). The unit forced four takeaways in the Wild Card win over Green Bay and has consistently disrupted opposing offenses. Defensive tackles Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter anchor the interior, while Darius Slay and Quinyon Mitchell patrol the secondary.

Betting Prediction

The Eagles are 6-point favorites, with the total set at 44.0. Philadelphia’s balanced offense and league-best defense give them the edge, but the Rams’ late-season momentum and ability to pressure the quarterback could keep this game close. Expect Philadelphia to lean on Barkley and their defensive prowess to secure the win.

Projected final score: Eagles 27, Rams 20. Philadelphia should cover the spread, and the total may slightly go over if both offenses find success early.

Pick: Eagles -6, Over 44.0

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *