The NFC West has been one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL this season, and as the season nears its conclusion, fans are in for a potential photo finish. In a division where the Seattle Seahawks, Los Angeles Rams, Arizona Cardinals, and San Franciso 49ers are all separated by less than two games, no team can afford any missteps. A win or loss could be the difference between making the playoffs or being on the outside looking in. That’s what makes Sunday’s game between the 49ers and the Rams such a crucial matchup.

The 49ers have been rocked by injuries this year. Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, and Brock Purdy have all missed time this year. It’s a miracle that they are still in contention for their division with a record of 6-7 on the season. McCaffrey has been ruled out for the rest of the season, but outside of that, the 49ers gotten the majority of their players back on the field. And the results are starting to show after a 38-point outing against the Chicago Bears in Week 14.

The Los Angeles Rams also fell victim to the injury bug this season. Both of their standout receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nakua have missed time this year due to injury. But their starting quarterback Matt Stafford has kept the team afloat, and they are beginning to find their groove as they have won three of their last four games. The stakes in this game are even more heightened for Stafford and crew. A win for them and a Loss for the Seahawks would give them the division lead.