In a dramatic overtime finish, the Los Angeles Rams edged out the Seattle Seahawks 26-20, highlighted by Demarcus Robinson’s impressive one-handed, 39-yard touchdown catch.
Matthew Stafford, who threw the game-winning pass, pointed to a critical defensive stand just minutes before as the defining moment. With the Seahawks advancing deep into Rams territory on their first possession of overtime, a fourth-and-1 attempt was thwarted by Bobby Brown III and Omar Speights, who stopped Kenneth Walker III short of the line, allowing Stafford and the Rams offense to take over.
The Rams, needing only a field goal to win, opted for the end zone instead. Stafford found Robinson, who secured the ball with one hand as he fell, celebrating the touchdown with a spike and cheers from teammates.
Stafford completed 298 yards through the air, contributing two touchdowns against one interception. Robinson’s performance was crucial, as he recorded six catches for 94 yards and both Rams touchdowns.
On the other side, Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith threw for 363 yards, completing three touchdowns but also surrendering three interceptions. Despite the loss, Jaxon Smith-Njigba shone for Seattle, tallying a career-high 180 receiving yards and two touchdowns.
The defeat marks the Seahawks’ fourth consecutive loss at home and fifth in their last six games, leaving them in a challenging position in the tightly contested NFC West. The team will use their upcoming bye week to regroup and reassess their strategies.
The game’s momentum shifted when the Rams, down 13-3, capitalized on a critical interception return for a touchdown by Kamren Kinchens, who brought it back 103 yards early in the fourth quarter. However, the Seahawks quickly responded, with Smith finding Smith-Njigba for a 14-yard touchdown to tie the game with just 51 seconds remaining.
As the clock wound down, the Rams attempted to set up for a potential game-winning field goal but ultimately punted, leading to overtime.
Throughout the game, Kinchens was a standout, recording two of the Rams’ three interceptions against Smith, both in pivotal moments. His longest interception return for a touchdown set a franchise record.
The Rams faced challenges during the game, including the ejection of receiver Puka Nacua for throwing a punch at Seahawks linebacker Tyrel Dodson. After the game, Nacua reflected on the incident as a learning moment.
The Seahawks were also missing key players, including top receiver DK Metcalf due to injury, forcing Smith-Njigba to step up in his absence.
The matchup began slowly, with both teams punting multiple times before the offense began to find rhythm. The Rams’ defense capitalized on early mistakes, with Jaylen McCollough snagging an interception, becoming the first Rams rookie with at least four interceptions since Janoris Jenkins in 2012.
As the game unfolded, it showcased the resilience of both teams, with the Rams managing to pull off the win despite setbacks and a fluctuating scoreline. The victory marks the Rams’ third straight win, lifting their record to 4-4, while the Seahawks, now at 4-5, must regroup before their next game.
