GLENDALE, Ariz. (Interstat) — A surging Los Angeles Rams squad aiming to solidify its playoff standing will face a struggling Arizona Cardinals team desperate to halt a skid when the NFC West rivals meet Sunday at State Farm Stadium. The Rams (9-3) enter Week 14 riding a 5-1 stretch over their last six games, their only loss in that span a narrow 31-28 road defeat to Carolina last Sunday. Quarterback Matthew Stafford has been instrumental, throwing for 11 touchdowns against just one interception during the four games prior. In the loss to the Panthers, Stafford passed for 243 yards and two scores, supported by a rushing attack that produced 153 yards. Conversely, the Cardinals (3-9) have lost four consecutive games and seven of their last eight. Veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett has kept Arizona competitive through the air, surpassing 300 yards in two of the last three contests, including a 301-yard, two-touchdown performance in a 20-17 loss to Tampa Bay. However, defensive struggles have plagued the team, which has allowed an average of 34 points during its four-game losing streak. Despite the stark contrast in records, the matchup presents intrigue. The Cardinals’ lone victory since early October came against Dallas, demonstrating a capacity to upset contenders. Brissett’s recent efficiency — he completed 72.5% of his passes in the last outing — will test a Rams secondary that allowed 31 points to Carolina. Los Angeles will rely on its balanced offense, featuring running backs Kyren Williams and Blake Corum, to control tempo and exploit an Arizona defense ranked near the league’s bottom. Stafford’s connection with his receivers against Arizona’s pass defense will be a key battle. According to National Statistical’s game simulator, Arizona is projected to win 28-24. Oddsmakers have installed the Cardinals as an 8.5-point favorite, with an over/under set at 47.5 points. The game is the first of two meetings between the teams in the season’s final month, with a rematch scheduled for Jan. 3 in Los Angeles. For the Rams, a victory is crucial to keep pace in the crowded NFC playoff race. For the Cardinals, it represents a chance to play spoiler and build momentum for 2026.