A number of teams across the NFL are dealing with unexpected adversity this week, either due to injuries or COVID-19 issues, and the Rams are certainly among them. In a game that could determine whether the Rams make the playoffs or begin their offseason early, they’ll be missing Jared Goff, Cooper Kupp, Michael Brockers and Darrell Henderson.

The Cardinals have injury questions of their own, but they’ll be much closer to full strength than L.A. – and will at least have their stud quarterback, Kyler Murray.

Odds are against the Rams in this one, but can they pull off the upset with a backup quarterback who will take his first NFL snap this Sunday? That’s tough to say, but if any coach can make it happen, it’s Sean McVay.

In order for the Rams to win this game, they’ll have to dominate on defense and take care of the football offensively. That’s easy to say about every game, but without Goff, Kupp and Henderson, it’s even more critical against the Cardinals.

If John Wolford throws two picks or coughs up fumbles, the Rams will have no chance to win; they’re 1-3 when turning it over more than once this season. But if he even throws for 200-plus yards, scores a couple of touchdowns and doesn’t turn it over at all, the Rams will absolutely be in this game with a shot to win it late.

The defense is what has carried L.A. all year, and that will need to be the case again – even more than ever, too. Jalen Ramsey can lock down DeAndre Hopkins, Aaron Donald can pressure Murray, and the safeties are excellent at taking away big plays over the top.

But without Brockers, containing Murray in the pocket and limiting his work on the ground will be a challenge. And when he rushes for at least 50 yards, the Cardinals are 5-3. They’re 3-4 when he has fewer than 50 yards rushing.

Missing Kupp will hurt the Rams on third down, too, especially with Wolford at quarterback. If they can’t consistently move the chains, the offense will give Murray way too many chances, which is a recipe for disaster.

The Rams will be able to keep it close, but Arizona will pull ahead late and secure the victory. Fortunately, it won’t matter much because I also think the Packers will beat the Bears to push L.A. into the playoffs.

Final score prediction: Cardinals 21, Rams 20