PHX Reporter

The Arizona Cardinals are set to face the Los Angeles Rams in a crucial game this Saturday. Despite being out of playoff contention after their recent loss to the Panthers, the Cardinals aim to impact the NFC West standings by potentially disrupting the Rams' postseason plans.

Cornerback Starling Thomas V expressed enthusiasm for playing during the holiday season, saying, "Everybody wants to do good on the holidays and give everybody something to smile about." However, he acknowledged that when they travel to Los Angeles, their goal is different: "We definitely want to be a spoiler."

The Rams currently lead the division with a 9-6 record and can clinch it with a victory over the Cardinals. The Seattle Seahawks maintain slim hopes after defeating the Bears but need favorable outcomes, including a Rams loss, to keep their chances alive.

Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith remarked on his support for Arizona's efforts against Los Angeles: "I'm going to be a big Kyler Murray fan on Saturday. If they get it done, they get it done."

Despite their elimination from playoff contention, defensive lineman Naquan Jones emphasized that the team remains motivated: "You want to go out there and put your best on film and be remembered by the last thing you put on tape."

Jones and Thomas recall past victories against playoff-bound teams like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia as important cultural wins for the franchise. Thomas noted, "We know we're a playoff team compared to last year," highlighting their competitive spirit despite inconsistencies.

Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon stressed the importance of finishing strong: "If we want to get to where we want to get to, you've got to win these games."

In other news, following Jackson Barton's promotion from practice squad to roster, rookie offensive lineman Matthew Jones has been signed onto Arizona's practice squad. Jones played at Ohio State and was previously with Miami Dolphins during preseason.