The Los Angeles Rams have already secured their playoff ticket, but it is still open whether it will be the third or fourth seed in the NFC postseason. This question is obviously not too important for coach Sean McVay: McVay announced on Wednesday evening that he would spare numerous starters in the regular season final.
Quarterback Jared Goff, Running Back Todd Gurley, Defensive Tackle Aaron Donald, as well as the offensive Linemen Andrew Whitworth and John Sullivan will not play against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday. Sean Mannion is allowed to start at the quarterback position, Malcolm Brown represents Gurley.
McVay makes it clear that he doesn’t care too much about deciding between the third and fourth seed:”The Rams will in any case have a wildcard home game and can’t play off-bye anymore. With a win over San Francisco, L. A. would have had a better chance. the third seed and a game against Atlanta or Seattle, but in the event of a defeat it would be the fourth seed with a duel against the Panthers or the Saints.
McVay explained his decision to the Los Angeles Daily News:”There are four teams we can potentially face. All four of them are very, very strong and no matter what happens, in the second play-off round we have to go away. Considering the risk and potential reward, we think it’s the best way to save some guys.”