CHIRPING BIRDS- THE RAMS

The LA Rams play the 49'ers today. The Rams, who have already clinched the NFC West title, plan to rest their starters, including quarterback Jared Goff and star running back Todd Gurkey. If the Rams lose, they may drop form the No. 3 seed in the upcoming playoffs to the No. 4 seed. If they are No. 4. the Rams would play a wild card team next weekend in Los Angeles. If they win that game, they would then travel to Philadelphia to play the Eagles.

Are the Rams targeting the Eagles? Or are they simply just resting their starters, for fear of injury?

The Rams have a high-scoring offense. They are a warm-weather team, playing in a possibly frigid Philly. They lost a shoot-out to Carson Wentz and the Birds in early December. it was a classic game. LA has since cruised, while the Birds, still winning, lost Wentz for the season.

Do the Rams feel they have a better shot crossing the country and playing Nick Foles and the Eagles, despite the potential icy cold weather? Would the Rams rather go to Minnesota and face their fierce defense or play the Foles-led Birds?

LA has the firepower to win anywhere. Their high-powered offense against the Vikings' defense would be an interesting match-up. The NFC is so even and so wide open, any of the six tournament teams can move on to the Super Bowl.

The Eagle defense must step up, no matter who they play in the first round,. The Defense plays well at the Linc, with 60,000 crazy fans urging them on. Turnovers are always key. Goff and the Rams are explosive but inexperienced. Would the spotlight of the playoffs be too much for the young Rams?

Purposely playing their way to face the Birds would be a mistake. Finishing third and possibly going to Minnesota isn't a bad move for LA. If they are good enough they will win anywhere.

For the Eagles, they rest after today's game with Dallas. We will know by tonight who is in and out of the playoffs and the potential first round match-ups. The opponents invading the Linc all offer different strengths and weaknesses. There is no dominant team. That's good, considering the loss of Wentz. The Eagles' advantage is the two home games.

 The road to the Super bowl goes through Philadelphia. After today, it's win or go home.In the Eagles' case, it's win and stay home. I'll share my playoffs predictions later in the week.