The Minnesota Vikings faced a tough challenge against the Los Angeles Rams, leading to a painful playoff exit. Both teams had contrasting styles, with the Vikings known for their aggressive downfield passing and the Rams boasting a formidable defensive front. The Rams were well-prepared, having rested their starters in the previous week, while the Vikings' offensive line struggled after a poor performance against Detroit.
Sean McVay's playoff experience played a significant role, showcasing his strategic edge over Kevin O’Connell, who was still learning from his limited playoff exposure. The advanced stats highlighted the Rams' dominance, particularly in pressuring Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold, leading to a series of missed opportunities and ineffective plays.