Los Angeles Rams vs Philadelphia Eagles Betting Preview | Divisional Playoffs 2025
Los Angeles Rams (10-7 SU, 8-8-2 ATS) vs Philadelphia Eagles (13-4 SU, 10-7 ATS)
NFL Divisional Playoffs
Date/Time: Sunday, January 19, 2025, 3:00 PM ET
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
Odds: Philadelphia -6, Total: 44
Game Overview
The Los Angeles Rams travel to Philadelphia as 6-point underdogs in this NFC Divisional Round showdown. After resting their starters in a meaningless Week 18 loss to Seattle, the Rams come in healthier and riding an 8-game streak without a meaningful loss, their last one being a 37-20 defeat to the Eagles.
In that game, Philadelphia's rushing attack gashed the Rams for 314 yards, with Saquon Barkley accounting for 255 yards on 26 carries, including two 70-yard runs.
The Eagles finished the regular season with the league's top-ranked defense, allowing just 17.4 points per game and 279.7 yards per game. Their offense, ranked 7th in scoring (26.9 PPG), is powered by a dominant ground game averaging 178.7 rushing yards per game (2nd). The Rams will need to contain this rushing attack and lean on their improving health and balanced offense (329.2 YPG, 15th) to have a shot.
Key Matchups and Analysis
1. **Rams' Run Defense vs Eagles' Rushing Attack**
Philadelphia's league-best rushing attack, led by Barkley, averages 4.9 yards per carry (4th) and 178.7 rushing yards per game (2nd). The Rams' run defense ranks 21st, allowing 128.7 rushing yards per game and 4.6 yards per carry (26th). Los Angeles must address their inability to stop explosive runs, as evidenced by Barkley's two 70-yard touchdowns in their earlier matchup.
2. **Rams' Passing Attack vs Eagles' Secondary**
Los Angeles has a capable passing offense, averaging 226.1 yards per game (11th) with a 65.87% completion rate (13th). However, they face a tough test against Philadelphia's top-ranked secondary, which allows just 175.3 passing yards per game and 6.0 yards per pass attempt (1st). Protecting the quarterback will be crucial, as the Eagles' pass rush boasts a 6.96% sack rate (16th).
3. **Turnovers and Field Position**
Both teams excel at taking care of the ball. The Rams rank 9th in turnover margin (+0.4 per game), while the Eagles are 3rd (+0.8 per game). With both defenses adept at forcing turnovers, winning the field position battle will be critical. Philadelphia's kicker struggles in accuracy (79.49%, 25th), giving the Rams a slight edge in special teams efficiency.
Betting Trends
- Los Angeles is 8-8-2 ATS this season but has not lost a meaningful game in 8 weeks.
- Philadelphia is 10-7 ATS and 7-2 SU at home this season.
- The Eagles have gone Over the total in 4 of their last 6 games.
- The Rams are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 playoff games as underdogs.
Betting Pick and Rationale
While Philadelphia's dominance on both sides of the ball makes them the favorites, the Rams' improving health and strong playoff pedigree make them a live underdog. With Sean McVay's ability to scheme adjustments and a defense likely focused on limiting big plays, Los Angeles has the tools to keep this game within the number.
The total of 44 points feels modest given Philadelphia's scoring ability and the Rams' offensive balance. However, if Los Angeles can limit Barkley's explosive runs and control the pace, this game could trend under the total.
Best Bets:
- Rams +6
- Under 44
Final Score Prediction:
Philadelphia 24, Los Angeles 20