The Los Angeles Rams just kicked off their 2026 season with a brutal 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, and before we can even catch our breath, ESPN’s Dan Graziano has already dropped a take so spicy, it’s scorching the entire NFC West. According to Graziano, this Rams team, after a single game, could totally finish third in their division and miss the playoffs. Seriously? After *one* game? Dude even tried to stamp it with a “Verdict: NOT AN OVERREACTION,” but let’s be real, that’s just wild.
One Game Does Not a Season Make, Folks
Yeah, the loss was rough. We’re talking Myles Garrett clearly hampered by injury, Aaron Donald not even on the field, Matthew Stafford looking like he forgot how to quarterback, and Sean McVay getting out-coached. And now Garrett’s on injured reserve with a knee injury, out for at least four games. That’s a gut punch, no doubt. But to immediately jump from Super Bowl favorites to missing the playoffs entirely? That’s the definition of a knee-jerk reaction. Even Graziano himself noted, “The Rams will probably be fine. But Week 1 was a reminder that it’s just way too early to crown them or anyone else.” Well, it’s also way too early to write them off, isn’t it?
NFC West Is a Gauntlet, But Give ‘Em a Chance
Let’s not forget where this game went down: Australia! The 49ers had been chilling Down Under for a full week, getting adjusted. The Rams, on the other hand, showed up barely 48 hours before kickoff. That’s a massive disadvantage, plain and simple. We all know the NFC West is a beast of a division. Our very own Seattle Seahawks are elite teams, and those 49ers are no slouches either, so there was always a chance for a highly competitive race where the Rams *could* finish third. But to *already* believe that after one game, especially with those travel factors? C’mon, man. This Rams team is better than what they showed, even with some key players struggling or sidelined.
So, let’s pump the brakes on the playoff obituaries for the Rams. Give it another few weeks. Let’s see how they handle things without Garrett and, more importantly, when they’re actually back playing in the United States. And don’t forget, Aaron Donald hasn’t even suited up yet! The season is just getting started, and the NFC West is already promising to be a wild ride.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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