Behind Enemy Lines: Previewing Rams-Cardinals with expert Q&A

The Los Angeles Rams have their second divisional matchup of the season this weekend, as they'll host the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday afternoon. It's their first meeting with Mike LaFleur's team after he spent the last three years as Sean McVay's offensive coordinator.

To preview this NFC West matchup, we asked Cards Wire lead writer Jess Root five questions, even getting his final score prediction (spoiler: he expects the Rams to win big).

Do the Cardinals have anyone on offense who can beat the Rams besides Trey McBride and Michael Wilson?

Cards Wire: The short answer is no, but other guys will make a few plays. Teagan Quitoriano scored twice last week (his first touchdowns since 2022). Elijah Higgins will be open more as McBride is getting a lot of attention. Kendrick Bourne is reliable. However, none of those guys are players that can be leaned upon for big plays or critical moments.

How big of a blow is Jeremiyah Love's injury?

Cards Wire: Well, he hadn't been given the offense much overall, but the absence of his skillset will make the running game less dynamic. Tyler Allgeier is certainly capable and Bam Knight has had moments for the Cardinals, but Love's absence makes an anemic running game look even less threatening.

Is it still too early for the Cardinals to turn to Carson Beck?

Cards Wire: That is the big debate right now. While Jacoby Brissett hasn't been the problem, he hasn't been good, and after going 2-15 in 17 starts for the Cardinals, he doesn't have much of a ceiling. However, the Cardinals gave him a big raise before the season, so they will keep rolling him out until he isn't best option for them. Many want to see Beck, but with only one start in the preseason, no one knows if he is ready or not.

What are the early reviews of Mike LaFleur as a head coach?

Cards Wire: They are mixed. He sounded good early on, and the offense has had more overall production than last season. However, the defense is terrible. He has become a little less transparent in his answers, and the offense really has been unimpressive with almost no big plays.

Who wins on Sunday and what's the final score?

Cards Wire: Considering the Cardinals' struggles defensively and against the NFC West, it's a blowout with late offense from the Cardinals. Rams 38, Cardinals 24