Incredible Last-Minute Interception by Ahkello Witherspoon Saves Rams—But Was It Enough to Secure the Win?

The Los Angeles Rams fought through a challenging offensive night, barely holding onto a narrow lead as they battled the Arizona Cardinals. With the game on the line in the final minute, Rams cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon made a crucial last-minute interception to preserve the 13-9 victory and keep Los Angeles on the verge of another […]

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Dec 30, 2024 - 02:30

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Incredible Last-Minute Interception by Ahkello Witherspoon Saves Rams—But Was It Enough to Secure the Win?

The Los Angeles Rams fought through a challenging offensive night, barely holding onto a narrow lead as they battled the Arizona Cardinals. With the game on the line in the final minute, Rams cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon made a crucial last-minute interception to preserve the 13-9 victory and keep Los Angeles on the verge of another NFC West title.

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Dramatic Ending Seals Rams’ Fifth Straight Victory

With just 37 seconds remaining in the game, the Rams were on the edge of losing their lead when Arizona quarterback Kyler Murray drove the Cardinals to the Rams’ 5-yard line. On first down, Murray threw a quick pass that deflected off tight end Trey McBride’s helmet, and Witherspoon dove into the end zone to make a fingertip interception. The ball briefly touched the ground, but the play was upheld by video review, and the Rams held on to win.

“We didn’t do a whole lot great, to be honest with you,” Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford said after the game. “Didn’t run it great. Didn’t throw it great. But we found a way to get a win and get enough points.”

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Key Performances

Puka Nacua had a standout game, racking up 129 yards receiving, while Kyren Williams’ 14th rushing touchdown of the season gave the Rams their only offensive score. Despite struggles on offense, the Rams defense made critical plays, with Witherspoon’s interception being the game-sealing moment.

The Rams (10-6) extended their winning streak to five games, staying in control of the NFC West division race.

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Playoff Picture: Rams Close to Clinching NFC West Title

The Rams’ next challenge comes in their regular-season finale against the Seattle Seahawks (9-7) next week. However, they could clinch the NFC West title before even playing the game.

If the Buffalo Bills, Cleveland Browns, Minnesota Vikings, Washington Commanders, and San Francisco 49ers each win at least three of their upcoming games, the Rams will secure the division title based on their strength of schedule.

If the Rams don’t receive this help, they’ll still control their destiny. A win over Seattle will guarantee their sixth playoff berth in eight seasons under head coach Sean McVay, while a Seahawks victory would require a series of other results to fall their way.

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Cardinals’ Late Push Falls Short

Despite being eliminated from playoff contention, the Cardinals (7-9) played a strong defensive game, giving the Rams a tough challenge throughout. Kyler Murray passed for 321 yards and connected with McBride for his first touchdown of the season.

But Arizona struggled in key moments. After driving to the Rams’ 5-yard line in the final minute, they failed to score on four downs. In the game’s final seconds, Witherspoon’s interception ended any hopes of a last-minute victory.

“We got unlucky,” Murray said after the game. “We drove down the field, and there’s nothing the defense can do to stop us. In the end, we had a bad turn of events.”

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Rams’ Defensive Standouts

The Rams’ defense played a pivotal role in securing the win, especially with Witherspoon’s game-changing interception. In addition, rookie Kam Kinchens made a key play earlier, intercepting Murray on a fourth-down attempt in the final minutes.

Michael Hoecht also contributed with a blocked extra point in the third quarter, extending his lead as the NFL’s top kicker-blocker this season with three total blocks.

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Injury Report

For the Cardinals, cornerback Garrett Williams was evaluated for a concussion in the second half, while running back James Conner, who had been dealing with a knee injury, was limited to just four carries.

The Rams were without right tackle Rob Havenstein, who sat out due to a shoulder injury sustained during practice this week. Backup Joe Noteboom struggled in Havenstein’s absence, committing three holding penalties.

Looking Ahead

With the win, the Rams now look toward their final game against the Seahawks. They’ve put themselves in a position to capture the NFC West title, but they’ll need to keep their focus and hope for the right results in the coming days. As for Arizona, they will finish a disappointing season with their fifth loss in six games, despite strong individual performances from Murray and McBride.