Max, your take about playoff positioning is certainly relevant but I see this very differently.
To me, this year's story of the Rams is not about the opponents. I believe there is enough talent and coaching to win any and every game (unlike last year). This year seems to be a matter of focus and consistency, something that has been lacking and has been uncharacteristically documented by McVay himself.
To me, this individual game is all about execution regardless off the results. If the Rams are mostly focused but lose a close game, it will hurt, but I will still have confidence going forward. The two scenarios I fear are 1. Another lapse like what we witnessed against the Niners and Dolphins will reflect what we endured last year with similar results (think Ravens/Cowboys) or 2. The Rams dominate the Bucs only to lose focus against either the 9ers or Cards.
Ive been consistent for years that player health is one of the most telling factors to the final result of any season. The loss of Whit is significant, but not catastrophic. I refuse to name them out of superstition, but the loss of any of our other top 4 mvp's would be catastrophic. To me, that's the #1 stat every week.
