Over the last several weeks, the Seattle Seahawks have vaulted themselves from the fringe of the playoff picture to the top of the NFC West. Seattle has won four straight games since dropping to 4-5 prior to its bye week,

But the Thursday evening matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers is a bit different. It actually matters a lot to the overall NFC playoff picture, especially for the eventual winner of the NFC West division. That’s right, dearest. We’re talking PLAYOFF IMPLICATIONS. Gasp!

The Rams need a win to keep pace in the playoff race, while a win for the Niners would pull them even with LA.