The NFC West delivers another chippy matchup this week as the Los Angeles Rams travel to face the Arizona Cardinals. Don’t be fooled by either team’s record; this game has sneaky shootout potential. But with Marvin Harrison Jr. ruled out, Arizona’s offensive dynamics shift dramatically, putting even more pressure on Jacoby Brissett and Trey McBride to move the chains against a Rams defense that has been quietly getting more disruptive as the season goes on.
Meanwhile, the Rams enter hungry after a frustrating loss last week. Matthew Stafford and his weapons will look to recalibrate against a Cardinals defense that plays hard but consistently yields yardage and points. There are clear fantasy advantages to tap into here, so let’s break them down.
START ’EM
Matthew Stafford — QB, Rams
Stafford is irritated after last week’s loss, and that usually spells trouble for his next opponent. Expect Sean McVay to put the ball in his hands early and often, exploiting mismatches in the Cardinals’ secondary. Two touchdowns feels like the floor, not the ceiling.
Kyren Williams — RB, Rams
Williams looked explosive last week (13-72-1) and avoided an injury designation—a huge win for fantasy managers. He’s the engine of this offense, and the Cardinals have been vulnerable to multi-dimensional backs all season. Another 100-yard total day with a score is well within reach.
Davante Adams — WR, Rams
Adams continues to show why he’s one of the smartest veterans in football. Let the young guys eat between the 20s. Adams is here for the money plays. Expect Stafford to look his way on key downs and in the red zone. An easy goal-line touchdown feels likely.
Puka Nacua — WR, Rams
Nacua hasn’t been hitting pay dirt enough lately, but this matchup gives him a prime chance to correct that. The Cardinals struggle to contain physical, high-target wideouts, and Puka should see plenty of volume. He’s due—and this is the week he cashes in.
Trey McBride — TE, Cardinals
With MHJ out, McBride becomes the unquestioned focal point of the passing game. Kyler trusts him, and the target volume will be massive. Expect double-digit targets and high-end TE1 production.
Bam Knight — RB, Cardinals
Knight continues to own the goal-line role and looks like the Cards’ preferred early-down bruiser. If Arizona gets inside the 10, he’s getting the rock. A short-yardage score feels very realistic.
Designation: Michael Carter — WR, Cardinals
The last time MHJ missed time, Carter exploded for 118 yards and 10 receptions. Arizona leans on him heavily in checkdown and two-minute situations, and that usage should spike again. Deep PPR leagues should absolutely consider him.
SLEEPERS
Xavier Smith — WR, Cardinals
Smith did a lot with a little last week, making the most of his three catches. With targets up for grabs this week, he’s a deep-league, multiple-flex dart throw who could sneak his way into a meaningful fantasy day.
SIT ’EM
Cardinals Defense
This unit plays with heart but still gives up too many points. With the Rams’ offensive weapons and Stafford entering bounce-back mode, this is not the week to roll out Arizona’s defense. Bench them with confidence.
FINAL TAKEAWAY
This divisional matchup should stay competitive, but the Rams enter with more stability and more reliable fantasy assets, especially with MHJ sidelined. Expect LA’s offense to control the game, while the Cardinals lean heavily on Trey McBride and their running backs to stay afloat.
Fire up your Rams skill players, take advantage of opportunity-based Cardinals options, and avoid the Arizona defense in all formats.
