Mevis kicks a 42-yarder after Kam Curl intercepts a deep pass from former USC quarterback Caleb Williams on the Bears’ first possession of the extra period in a 20-17 win.
A three-and-out to open overtime put all the pressure on the Rams’ defense in Sunday night’s divisional-round matchup with the Chicago Bears. The game had gone to sudden death, and a field goal would end the Rams’ season.
But safety Kam Curl wasn’t ready to go home, instead making a diving interception at the Rams 22 to give the ball back to quarterback Matthew Stafford. And Stafford wasn’t going to come up short twice.
First, a short pass to tight end Colby Parkinson for 15 yards. Then a dart to Davante Adams on the sideline in the tightest of windows for 12, Adams dragging his second foot to stay in bounds. And then, facing third-and-6, Stafford found Puka Nacua in the slot on a quick button hook. Nacua turned and ran to the Bears’ 27.
In field goal range, the Rams’ season came down to a field goal. And midseason addition Harrison Mevis delivered with a 42-yarder down the middle, delivering the Rams a 20-17 win and a trip to face the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC title game.
With a 14-play opening drive, the Rams looked as though they would move the ball with ease all game. Stafford was able to connect on 6 of 8 passes, two going to Jordan Whittington for 35 yards, and Kyren Williams picked up 18 on four carries.
