Each week, we’re going to try and be better. To some degree, we had success with our NFC West Bold Predictions in Week 10. Of course, though, we want to be better this week. We are going to have some fun this week with a big divisional matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks. Not to be outdone, the San Francisco 49ers and Arizona Cardinals are also facing each other this week. With that in mind, here are two bold predictions for each NFC West team as we head into Week 11.
Rams:
Matthew Stafford
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) runs off the field after their win against the Jacksonville Jaguars in an NFL International Series game at Wembley Stadium. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Stafford Takes a Step Back
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Matthew Stafford sits atop the list of MVP contenders through the first 10 weeks of the NFL season. It’s for good reason as the quarterback has 2,427 passing yards and 25 touchdowns through his first nine games of the season. To give an idea of how good Stafford has been, following Week 3, he had five touchdown passes before flipping a switch. It’s a home matchup against Seattle for Stafford this week, and I’m expecting things to be played a little tighter. That means two touchdowns for Stafford, not four.
Los Angeles Runs the Ball 35 Times
Based on some of their previous opponents, facing the Seattle Seahawks offense represents a significant test for the Rams’ defense. While not dominant, they also shouldn’t fold. It makes sense that the Los Angeles will look to rely on their running game to control the clock and time of possession battle. That means 20-25 carries for Kyren Williams and another 10-15 for Blake Corum.
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Seahawks:
Nov 9, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) throws a pass during the fourth quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
It’s a Darnold Game
A week after Sam Darnold only attempted 12 passes, in a resounding victory, I’m expecting things to be different in Week 11. The Rams’ defense ranks ninth in the league with 97 rushing yards allowed per game. That means the Seahawks will likely shift their offensive approach to the air. It also plays to Seattle’s strength, so look for Darnold to throw for 300 yards.
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Let’s Play the Revenge Narrative
It’s been a bumpy start to Cooper Kupp’s career in Seattle after previously spending his whole career with the Rams. Yes, Rashid Shaheed is in the picture, but Kupp did have a 67-yard catch in Week 10. As he returns to Los Angeles, I’m looking at seven catches for 100 yards and Kupp’s second touchdown of the season.
49ers:
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle celebrates after scoring a touchdown.
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle celebrates after scoring a touchdown – Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
Kittle Hits the Century Mark
With Brock Purdy likely returning this week, finally, the 49ers are closer to being at full strength. That can also be said for George Kittle, who is rounding into form. Last week, he caught nine passes for 84 yards as San Francisco’s leading receiver. This week, I’m expecting him to take things a step further with the return of Purdy.
Robinson Out Gains CMC
Before you really think I’ve lost my mind, I’m simply referring to rushing yards. Christian McCaffrey has had a great year as a receiver, but the same can’t be said about his performance on the ground. He’s averaging just 3.5 yards per carry, while Brian Robinson is averaging 4.9 yards. The 49ers need to establish the run game, so this week, my thought process is that each running back plays to their strength.
Cardinals:
Emari Demercado
Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back Emari Demercado (31) celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks in the fourth quarter at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Demercado Takes the Lead
A week after carrying the ball 14 times for 79 yards, Emari Demercado dropped to four carries last week. He did gain 64 yards while catching three passes for 40 yards, but the dip in touches wasn’t ideal. Granted, the Cardinals were trailing, so the run game wasn’t really a factor. Bam Knight figures to be active on Sunday, but he is dealing with an ankle injury. I’m looking for Demercado’s role to grow as he leads the Arizona backfield in touches and finishes with 100-plus yards.
Wilson is the Number One
Injuries have been a factor, but the San Francisco defense has had some issues. Jacoby Brissett has been solid, at times, under center for the Arizona Cardinals, and they’ve shown the desire to move the ball downfield. With Marvin Harrison sidelined, someone has to step up. Michael Wilson enters the week as the number one receiver for Arizona after catching four passes for 34 yards last week. This week, I’m looking for seven catches, 85 yards, and a touchdown.
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