NFL Divisional Round weekend: X-factors for each game

Dallas Cowboys at Los Angeles Rams 

X-FACTOR: Rams defense

We’ll see another amazing, high-flying offense on Saturday. The Rams, just like the Chiefs, have been on fire this season. Also, just like the Chiefs, the Rams defense isn’t the greatest. This is why they’re the x-factor for this matchup. Can they stop Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott?

Defense wins championships in the NFL. Whether it’s a dominant defense or one that just found their way during the postseason, a team needs to stop the opposing offense in some capacity at a high level in order to be successful this time of year. Can Aaron Donald and Co. do enough to contain the Cowboys playmakers at home?

This is a huge game for the city of Los Angeles. This defense will need to step up and help out their potent offense. The Cowboys boast one of the best running backs in the NFL. If the Rams can help stop the run and make Dak throw the ball, they can come out with a huge playoff victory. Head Coach Sean McVay really needs this win to solidify himself as the top coach in the NFL.