The Los Angeles Rams and Arizona Cardinals are set to face off in a highly anticipated Week 2 matchup of the 2024 NFL season on Sunday, September 15, at 1:05 PM PT. This game will be a significant early-season clash between two NFC West rivals with playoff aspirations. With both teams looking to make a statement, this game promises to be an exciting and hard-fought battle.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Rams vs. Cardinals game, including how to watch it, the key players to watch, and what to expect from both teams. Whether you’re planning to catch the game on TV or live stream it through platforms like FuboTV, Live TV, or Hulu TV, we’ve got you covered.
Date: Sunday, September 15, 2024
Time: 1:05 PM Pacific Time (4:05 PM Eastern Time)
Location: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Arizona
TV Channel: FOX
Live Stream: FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV
Tickets: as low as $29
How to Watch the Rams vs. Cardinals Game
For fans eager to catch the action, there are several options available to watch the Rams vs. Cardinals game:
1. Television Broadcast
The game will be broadcast live on FOX, one of the NFL’s primary broadcasting partners. FOX’s coverage will include pre-game analysis, in-depth commentary, and expert insights from a panel of seasoned analysts. Make sure to check your local listings to find the specific channel number in your area.
2. Live Stream Options
If you prefer to stream the game online, there are multiple platforms to choose from:
- FuboTV: FuboTV is a popular streaming service that offers access to live sports, including NFL games. You can stream the Rams vs. Cardinals game live on FuboTV with a subscription. FuboTV also offers a 7-day free trial for new users, so if you’re not already a subscriber, you can sign up and watch the game without committing to a long-term plan.
- Hulu + Live TV: Hulu + Live TV is another excellent option for streaming the game. With a Hulu + Live TV subscription, you can watch live NFL games, including the Rams vs. Cardinals matchup, on FOX. Hulu also offers a wide range of on-demand content, so you can catch up on shows and movies after the game.
- NFL Game Pass: For fans who want to watch the game on demand after it has aired, NFL Game Pass is a great option. This service allows you to watch replays of every NFL game, including the Rams vs. Cardinals, as well as condensed versions and coaches’ film for deeper analysis.
- FOX Sports App: If you have a cable or satellite subscription that includes FOX, you can also stream the game live through the FOX Sports app. The app is available on most mobile devices, smart TVs, and streaming devices.
Preview of the Rams vs. Cardinals Matchup
The Rams and Cardinals have a long-standing rivalry that dates back to their days in the NFC West. Both teams have undergone significant changes in recent years, making this matchup all the more intriguing. Here’s a closer look at what to expect from each team heading into this game:
Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams are coming off a strong season in which they made a deep playoff run. Led by head coach Sean McVay, the Rams have been one of the most consistent teams in the NFL in recent years. With a potent offense and a stingy defense, the Rams are once again considered contenders in the NFC.
Key Players to Watch:
- Matthew Stafford (QB): The veteran quarterback continues to be the engine that drives the Rams’ offense. Stafford’s ability to make big plays downfield and his experience in high-pressure situations make him a key player to watch in this matchup. His connection with wide receiver Cooper Kupp will be critical for the Rams’ success.
- Cooper Kupp (WR): Kupp had an outstanding 2023 season, solidifying himself as one of the best wide receivers in the NFL. His route-running, hands, and ability to create yards after the catch make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Expect Stafford to look Kupp’s way often in this game.
- Aaron Donald (DT): Donald is widely regarded as the best defensive player in the league. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses with his pass-rushing and run-stopping skills is unmatched. The Rams’ defense will rely heavily on Donald to apply pressure on Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray.
- Jalen Ramsey (CB): Ramsey is one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL, known for his ability to shut down opposing receivers. His matchup with the Cardinals’ top wideout, whether it’s DeAndre Hopkins or another playmaker, will be a key battle to watch.
Rams’ Strategy: The Rams’ success in this game will hinge on their ability to control the tempo on both sides of the ball. Offensively, they’ll look to establish the run early with running back Cam Akers, setting up play-action opportunities for Stafford to connect with Kupp and the rest of his receiving corps. Defensively, the Rams will focus on containing Kyler Murray and preventing big plays from the Cardinals’ dynamic offense.
Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals are a team on the rise, with a young and talented roster led by head coach Kliff Kingsbury. After a promising 2023 season, the Cardinals are looking to take the next step and establish themselves as a legitimate contender in the NFC West. With an explosive offense and an improving defense, the Cardinals have the potential to make some noise this season.
Key Players to Watch:
- Kyler Murray (QB): Murray is one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the NFL, known for his dual-threat ability. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. The Rams will need to keep Murray contained in the pocket to avoid giving up big plays.
- DeAndre Hopkins (WR): Hopkins remains one of the top wide receivers in the league, known for his incredible catch radius and ability to make contested catches. His chemistry with Murray is a cornerstone of the Cardinals’ offense, and he’ll be a focal point in this matchup.
- James Conner (RB): Conner is coming off a strong 2023 season in which he proved to be a reliable workhorse for the Cardinals’ offense. His ability to run between the tackles and contribute in the passing game gives the Cardinals’ offense a balanced attack.
- Budda Baker (S): Baker is the leader of the Cardinals’ defense, known for his versatility and playmaking ability. Whether he’s making tackles in the run game or covering tight ends and slot receivers, Baker is a key piece of the Cardinals’ defensive puzzle.
Cardinals’ Strategy: The Cardinals will look to leverage their speed and athleticism on offense to create mismatches against the Rams’ defense. Expect them to use a lot of pre-snap motion and misdirection to keep the Rams’ defenders off balance. Defensively, the Cardinals will need to generate pressure on Stafford and force him into making quick decisions. If they can disrupt the Rams’ passing game and limit big plays, they’ll have a good chance of coming out on top.
Key Matchups to Watch
Every NFL game is defined by individual matchups that can tip the scales in one team’s favor. Here are some key matchups to watch in the Rams vs. Cardinals game:
1. Aaron Donald vs. Cardinals Offensive Line
One of the most critical matchups in this game will be Aaron Donald against the Cardinals’ offensive line. Donald is a game-wrecker who can single-handedly disrupt an opposing offense. The Cardinals’ offensive line will have their hands full trying to contain Donald, and if they can’t keep him in check, it could be a long day for Kyler Murray.
2. Jalen Ramsey vs. DeAndre Hopkins
This is a marquee matchup between two of the best at their respective positions. Ramsey is known for his physicality and ability to lock down opposing receivers, while Hopkins is one of the best in the league at making contested catches. The winner of this battle could have a significant impact on the outcome of the game.
3. Matthew Stafford vs. Cardinals Pass Rush
Stafford is a veteran quarterback who has seen it all, but the Cardinals’ pass rush, led by players like J.J. Watt and Chandler Jones, will look to make life difficult for him. If the Cardinals can generate pressure and force Stafford into making mistakes, it could swing the momentum in their favor.
4. Kyler Murray vs. Rams’ Defense
Murray’s ability to extend plays with his legs is a huge part of the Cardinals’ offense. The Rams’ defense, led by Aaron Donald and Leonard Floyd, will need to keep Murray contained in the pocket and prevent him from breaking off big runs. How well the Rams’ defense handles Murray will be a key factor in the game.
What to Expect from the Game
The Rams vs. Cardinals matchup is shaping up to be a closely contested battle between two talented teams. Here’s what you can expect from the game:
- High-Scoring Affair: Both teams have explosive offenses capable of putting up points in a hurry. With playmakers like Stafford, Kupp, Murray, and Hopkins on the field, don’t be surprised if this game turns into a shootout.
- Turnover Battle: As with any NFL game, the turnover battle will be crucial. Both teams have opportunistic defenses that can create turnovers, and whichever team can take care of the ball and force mistakes from the other will have a significant advantage.
- Tactical Chess Match: Both head coaches, Sean McVay and Kliff Kingsbury, are known for their innovative offensive schemes.
