The Rams won’t have Matthew Stafford or Cooper Kupp, and Aaron Donald is likely to be shut down as well, leaving L.A. pretty punchless. But that was the same scenario last week, and the Seahawks clinched a 27-23 win in the game’s final seconds, giving Rams backers (including yours truly) a nice win at +7.5. 

They might have Baker Mayfield at QB. The Rams acquired the former No. 1 overall pick of waivers from the Panthers. As of Wednesday, there was no word on if coach Sean McVay planned to give Baker the keys to the offense, or if John Wolford (questionable, neck) will start his third game. 

Either way, we shouldn’t be shocked by another strong effort from the prideful Rams. Vegas’ last three wins were by 7, 6, and 6, and the matchups here aren’t as favorable. We side with the Rams to cover, though it’s not our top play on Thursday. 

The consistent Rams defense has allowed between 26-27 points in each of the last four games. The last two were vs. the Seahawks and Chiefs, two of the top-tossing teams in the NFL. Vegas averages 28 ppg at home, but only 21.7 ppg on the road. 

The Raiders' defense isn’t spectacular. L.A.’s chances hinge on time of possession and grinding. It’s not very capable of either, but it’ll try. Look for a downturn of offense from Vegas and another effort in the teens for the Rams, regardless of the QB. Back the Under at 44.5 points on betting apps. 

Vegas is -240 on the moneyline, meaning it takes a $240 wager to win $100 in profit on a Raiders victory. Los Angeles is at +200. The Rams have dropped six in a row, and the Raiders have won three straight. The Rams, banged up and out of the playoff chase, are in the process of shutting it down. The Raiders are gearing it up. 

This is a must-win for Vegas and a playing out of the schedule for L.A. I do think the Rams show up and compete, but do not win. The Raiders on the moneyline is the better play despite the higher odds. 

Davante Adams, Over 6.5 Receptions

Odds: -150 at BetMGM

The Rams rank 22nd in receiving yards allowed to WRs, but 31st in receptions. That means they’ll sacrifice additional shorter catches to eliminate bigger plays. Adams does both for the Raiders, especially lately. In the last five games, he’s had at least seven receptions in all of them and 126-plus yards in four of the five. Derek Carr won’t stop looking Adams’ way. He may not get 100-plus yards but he’s going to get 15-plus targets. 

Kyren Williams, Over 11.5 Receiving Yards

Odds: -115 at DraftKings

The Rams’ No. 2 back received one target and didn’t catch it last week vs. the Seahawks, but had three receptions in two of the previous three games, for 25 and 30 yards. Rams RB1 Cam Akers doesn’t catch passes, and the Raiders are allowing 55.5 receiving yards to backs, far and away the most in the NFL.