Arizona Cardinals Defeat Los Angeles Rams 18-16 in Week 6
The Cardinals coaching staff orchestrated a strong defensive scheme to pull off an 18-16 upset against the Los Angeles Rams.
The Arizona Cardinals secured an 18-16 victory over the Los Angeles Rams in Week 6 of the NFL season. Following an abysmal performance against the Detroit Lions in Week 5, Cardinals defensive coordinator Nick Rallis and head coach Mike LaFleur prepared a scheme that successfully rattled the Rams offense.
Rallis faced substantial scrutiny following the Cardinals' slow start to the 2026 season. However, his defense limited the Rams to just 16 total points despite facing 10 offensive drives during the matchup.
The Cardinals defense pressured Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford throughout the game. The unit recorded 62 total tackles, four tackles resulting in negative plays, and seven quarterback hits.
Los Angeles struggled to sustain momentum on third downs, converting only four of their 10 third-down attempts. The Rams offense was held to 286 total yards on the afternoon.
On the offensive side, LaFleur incorporated an effective ground game. Although the Cardinals have struggled at times to sustain offensive drives, which has previously created fatigue for their defense, their performance in Week 6 helped manage time of possession and secure the win.
With this victory, the Cardinals aim to continue their momentum and climb back above the .500 mark before the midpoint of the 2026 NFL season. Meanwhile, the Rams fell to a 2-4 record following the upset loss as double-digit favorites.