The Los Angeles Rams didn’t just win on Sunday night—they announced themselves as the team to beat in the NFC. A 34-7 demolition of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at SoFi Stadium on Week 12 of the 2025 NFL seasonInglewood, California didn’t just move the Rams to 9-2—it put them in sole possession of the NFC’s top seed, leapfrogging the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles. And it wasn’t close. The Rams scored 31 points in the first half alone, leaving the Buccaneers shell-shocked and their quarterback, Baker Mayfield, sidelined with a left shoulder sprain.
Stafford’s Masterclass and Adams’ Surge
Matthew Stafford, 37, didn’t just play well—he played like he’s still in his prime. Completing 25 of 35 passes for 273 yards and three touchdowns with zero interceptions, Stafford extended his streak to eight straight games without a pick. His precision was surgical: a 14-yard strike to Davante Adams on the opening drive, then a 24-yard dagger late in the second quarter that sealed the momentum. Adams, now with 12 touchdown catches this season—nine of them in the last five games—has become the most reliable weapon in the NFL. "He’s playing like the most valuable player in the league," Adams said of Stafford after the game. And honestly? It’s hard to argue.
The Rams’ offense wasn’t just efficient—it was electric. Puka Nacua added seven catches for 97 yards. New kicker Harrison Mevis nailed his first two NFL field goals: 38 and 45 yards. But the real story? The defense.
Defense That Broke the Buccaneers
Turns out, the Rams didn’t need to score 40 to win. They just needed to make Mayfield miserable. The Buccaneers’ QB managed 60 total yards before leaving in the third quarter with a sprained shoulder. Two of his passes ended up in the hands of Cobie Durant, the Rams’ lockdown cornerback. The first was a 50-yard pick-six to open the scoring—literally a dagger in the first quarter. The second, a screen to Cade Otton, was snatched mid-route and returned for another touchdown. That’s two defensive scores in one game. Rare. Devastating.
Jared Verse and Kobie Turner combined for four sacks. Safety Kam Kinchens blocked a Mayfield pass near the goal line. The Buccaneers managed just 123 yards through three quarters. Their only touchdown? A 14-yard catch by Tez Johnson. The Rams responded in four plays. That’s how you crush morale.
A Historic Night at SoFi
The crowd? The biggest in SoFi Stadium history—over 90,000 fans, according to CBS Sports. The noise? Deafening. The energy? Electric. The Rams haven’t trailed in a game since Week 6. They’ve won six straight since their last loss to the Arizona Cardinals on October 2. And now, with six games left, they’re not just leading the NFC—they’re the team everyone else is chasing.
Before kickoff, the Rams honored Aaron Donald, the legendary defensive tackle who retired in March 2024 after a decade of terrorizing offenses. The stadium erupted as his number was displayed on the jumbotron. It felt symbolic. This defense? It’s carrying the torch.
What’s Next? And What’s Broken?
The Buccaneers? They’re reeling. Three straight losses. Mayfield’s injury status is uncertain. Their offense, once a strength, looks lost without him. They’re now fighting to stay in playoff contention in the NFC South—a division where even a 7-9 record might not be enough.
For the Rams, the schedule eases slightly. Next up: a home game against the Carolina Panthers. Then a road trip to Seattle. But here’s the real question: Can they keep this up? They’ve got the best record in the NFC. The best defense. A quarterback playing like a man possessed. And a fanbase that’s turning SoFi into a fortress.
"It was a great atmosphere out there today," Stafford said. "Our fans did a great job showing up. Obviously, both sides of the ball gave them something to cheer about early and often, which was really cool."
Yeah. It was more than cool. It was a statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this win affect the Rams’ playoff chances?
With a 9-2 record, the Rams now hold the No. 1 seed in the NFC, guaranteeing home-field advantage through the playoffs if they maintain it. Only two teams in the NFL have fewer losses—both are AFC teams. Their remaining schedule includes three games against teams under .500, making a 12-win season very plausible. A first-round bye and a home divisional round are now realistic.
What’s the impact of Baker Mayfield’s injury on the Buccaneers?
Mayfield’s shoulder sprain is a major blow. Tampa Bay’s offense has been entirely dependent on him since Tom Brady’s retirement. Backup Blaine Gabbert, who played in relief, completed just 4 of 9 passes for 32 yards. Without Mayfield’s mobility and timing, the Buccaneers’ passing game collapses. Their playoff hopes now hinge on whether he can return by Week 15, and even then, the defense remains porous.
Why is Davante Adams performing so well this season?
Adams has found perfect chemistry with Stafford, who consistently delivers accurate throws under pressure. His route-running has improved with age—he’s now more efficient than explosive. The Rams’ offensive scheme, designed by Sean McVay, isolates him in one-on-one matchups. He’s also benefited from defenses focusing on Puka Nacua and the run game. His 12 TDs are the most in the NFL, and he’s on pace for 18, which would be his best season since 2020.
How has SoFi Stadium’s attendance changed this season?
Attendance has surged to an average of 90,300 per game this season—up from 78,000 in 2024. The Rams’ 2025 home schedule has sold out every game. The team attributes this to a winning culture, the return of fan-favorite players like Stafford, and the emotional connection to Aaron Donald’s legacy. CBS Sports noted the past two home games drew the largest crowds in the stadium’s history, including this 34-7 victory.
What does this mean for the NFC playoff race?
The Rams now lead the NFC by a full game over the Eagles and Cowboys. The 49ers (8-3) and Commanders (7-4) are chasing, but both have tougher remaining schedules. With a 9-2 record and the league’s best point differential (+158), the Rams are the NFC’s most complete team. If they win four of their last six, they’ll likely host the NFC Championship game.
Is Matthew Stafford still a top-tier quarterback at 37?
Absolutely. Stafford’s completion rate (68.2%), touchdown-to-interception ratio (28:3), and passer rating (115.4) are all career highs. He’s not relying on arm strength anymore—he’s using anticipation, timing, and field vision. He’s now tied with Patrick Mahomes for the most fourth-quarter comebacks since 2020. At 37, he’s not just playing well—he’s rewriting the narrative of aging quarterbacks.
