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Rams Fall 31–27 to Seahawks in NFC Title Game as McVay’s Decisions Face Scrutiny

Postgame focus centers on execution errors alongside scrutiny of Sean McVay’s late‑game calls.

Overview

  • Los Angeles’ loss featured a string of costly errors, including missed tackles, a failed fourth down in the red zone, and two muffed punts by returner Xavier Smith that McVay called costly.
  • Analysts questioned McVay’s clock management late, noting a timeout before a close third‑down spot that went unchallenged and helped Seattle drain precious time.
  • A fourth‑quarter decision to eschew a short field goal for a fourth‑down try drew criticism from ESPN’s Booger McFarland, who argued the situation called for taking the points.
  • Key momentum swings came on explosive Seattle completions before halftime and a third‑down touchdown that extended the lead, compounding the Rams’ margin for error.
  • Players emphasized accountability after the game, with Puka Nacua apologizing for missed chances and a late Colby Parkinson drop and a broken‑up end‑zone throw stalling a potential go‑ahead drive.