David Kenyon
The Los Angeles Rams are in the playoffs for the first time in the franchise’s last 13 years, but Sean McVay isn’t worried about attaining the highest seed.
Since the team cannot earn a first-round bye, the NFC West champions are guaranteed to host a Wild Card Round game regardless of what happens against the San Francisco 49ers. The lack of a larger reward means McVay will rest some starters.
“…[E]very single game is important — but I think it will provide an opportunity for us to potentially get some guys healthier, rest them, give some other guys a chance to step up,” McVay said, per Myles Simmons of the team’s official site.
According to Simmons, McVay said linebackers Alec Ogletree and Mark Barron are “definite candidates” to be rested in Week 17.
Should the Rams sit left tackle Andrew Whitworth and center John Sullivan, it would be wise to keep quarterback Jared Goff and running back Todd Gurley out of action, too. Without two key pieces up front, risk of injury certainly doesn’t decline.
Among the other players to watch are defensive tackle Aaron Donald, defensive end Robert Quinn and wide receiver Robert Woods. They might not get a full game off but should be limited.
All told, the Rams ought to make seven regular starters inactive in order to use a full 46-man roster on game day.
Los Angeles would prefer to be No. 3 just in case the Philadelphia Eagles and the No. 2 seed — likely the Minnesota Vikings — fall in the Divisional Round, so the Rams will still be playing to win Sunday. But without several starters, it’s possible Jimmy Garoppolo continues his undefeated streak behind center.
As long as the Rams are rested and healthy, though, McVay will be satisfied.
