Cardinals stun Rams as Chad Ryland's six field goals decide low-scoring game
Arizona defeated Los Angeles 18-16 at SoFi Stadium without scoring a touchdown. Kicker Chad Ryland made six field goals, including a 43-yard game-winner. The Cardinals controlled time of possession and out-gained the Rams, despite entering the season with much lower expectations.
Arizona entered the year ranked last in an early NFL power poll, following a 3-14 campaign and uncertainty at quarterback, where Jacoby Brissett was set to start. Los Angeles opened at No. 1 after adding Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie. After six weeks, both clubs shared the same record, and the Rams sat at the bottom of the NFC West.
Against the Rams, Arizona held the ball for 34:52, gained 338 yards to Los Angeles’s 286, and recorded more first downs. Chad Ryland converted from 34, 30, 22, 38, 27, and 43 yards, the last ending the game.
This result may give Cardinals supporters a rare morale boost and add scrutiny for a Rams team expected to contend. It could also remind casual NFL viewers that preseason rankings and offseason acquisitions do not guarantee early-season success. For kickers, Ryland’s six-field-goal performance may briefly shift attention toward special-teams players often overlooked in game narratives. Sports media and fans in both markets could see renewed debate about coaching, expectations, and how narrow outcomes shape a season’s mood.