The Los Angeles Rams face a formidable challenge by hosting the red-hot Buffalo Bills on Sunday. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Over 49 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Bills vs. Rams
Sunday, December 08, 2024 – 04:25 PM ET at SoFi Stadium
Buffalo Dominates San Francisco
Josh Allen displayed his versatility in the Buffalo Bills’ commanding 35-10 win over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, securing the AFC East title in style. Following the victory, Allen celebrated with coach Sean McDermott, making snow angels to cap off a historic day.
Allen became the first quarterback in NFL history to record a passing, rushing, and receiving touchdown in the same game, and just the seventh player to do so in the Super Bowl era. His electrifying performance included a seven-yard touchdown pass to Mack Hollins, an eight-yard rushing score, and a trick-play receiving touchdown.
The receiving touchdown was a highlight-reel moment. Amari Cooper made a one-handed catch while fending off two defenders and lateraled to Allen, who sprinted to the corner of the end zone, diving past the pylon for the score.
Buffalo capitalized on four of five possessions spanning halftime, building a commanding 28-3 lead. Ray Davis started the run with a five-yard touchdown, followed by James Cook’s 65-yard rushing touchdown, the highlight of his 107-yard performance.
A Historic Day for Allen
Allen’s final stat line was a model of efficiency: he completed 13 of 17 passes for 148 yards and two touchdowns, three carries for 18 yards and a rushing touchdown, and one reception for seven yards and another score. He broke Jim Kelly’s franchise record with 247 career touchdowns (186 passing, 59 rushing, and two receiving) while the home crowd chanted “MVP!” as he rested for much of the fourth quarter.
With their seventh straight win, Buffalo improved to 10-2 for the first time since 1991. They became the first team since the 2009 Colts to clinch their division with five games left and one of only eight teams in NFL history to achieve this milestone. The Bills’ offense has been electric, scoring 30+ points in six consecutive games.
Rams Survive in New Orleans
The Los Angeles Rams edged the New Orleans Saints 21-14 on Sunday, thanks to Matthew Stafford’s late-game heroics. Stafford threw two fourth-quarter touchdowns, and Kyren Williams contributed 104 rushing yards and a touchdown on just 15 carries.
The Saints threatened to force overtime, driving inside the Rams’ 10-yard line in the final minutes. However, edge rusher Jared Verse tipped Derek Carr’s fourth-down pass, sealing the Rams’ victory. Stafford finished with 183 yards and two touchdowns on 14-of-24 passing.
Puka Nacua and Demarcus Robinson played key roles in the passing game, with Nacua recording five receptions for 56 yards and a touchdown, while Robinson added 49 yards and a score on two catches.
Keys to the Game
Allen’s dynamic performance against the 49ers showcased his ability to create plays in multiple ways. The Rams’ defense, led by Verse, must stay disciplined and generate consistent pressure to prevent Allen from exploiting mismatches. If Allen’s improvisation breaks down the Rams’ defense, the Bills’ offense could dominate.
Cook’s explosive 65-yard touchdown run against the 49ers highlighted his game-breaking potential. His 107-yard performance provided balance to Buffalo’s offense. The Rams must contain Cook to force the Bills into a pass-heavy attack, giving their pass rush opportunities to disrupt Allen.
Stafford’s clutch throws against the Saints were encouraging, but he faces a Bills defense that has stifled opponents during their seven-game win streak. For Los Angeles to have a chance, Stafford needs to avoid turnovers and establish a rhythm against Buffalo’s aggressive defense.
Williams was a workhorse against New Orleans, tallying 104 rushing yards and a touchdown. Controlling the ground game will be critical to keeping Buffalo’s offense off the field. However, the Bills’ disciplined run defense has been a strength, and bottling up Williams could force the Rams to rely heavily on Stafford.
Both teams have shown they can capitalize on mistakes, making ball security and special teams play pivotal. A turnover or game-changing play in the kicking game could swing momentum in a tightly contested matchup.
NFL Pick
The Bills’ balanced attack, led by an MVP-caliber Allen, gives them a clear edge. While the Rams have shown flashes of brilliance with Stafford and Williams, Buffalo’s ability to control the game and score in multiple ways makes them the favorite. Expect a competitive game, but the Bills’ firepower may prove too much for the Rams in a high-scoring game.
NFL Pick: Over 49 (-110) at Bet365
*21+ Seek help with a gambling addiction at 1-800-Gambler
*The line and/or odds referenced in this article might have changed since the content was published. For the latest information on line movements, visit OddsTrader’s free betting odds tool.