Rams falter, Seahawks surge, 49ers streak. December's NFC West race ignites with three teams battling for divisional supremacy.
The NFC West is one of the most entertaining divisions in football this season. With three teams sitting at nine wins and each trending in different directions, the race for the crown is far from settled. Here’s where all four teams stand after a dramatic Week 13.
1. Los Angeles Rams (9–3): Still in First, but Suddenly Vulnerable
The Rams remain atop the NFC West, but Sunday’s stunning loss to the Carolina Panthers sent shockwaves across the conference. What had looked like one of the NFL’s most balanced teams suddenly showed cracks on both sides of the ball. The offense stalled, the defense gave up uncharacteristic chunk plays, and the Rams left the field looking more beatable than they have all year.
With the Seahawks and 49ers breathing down their necks, the Rams don’t have much room for error. Their margin has officially vanished.
2. Seattle Seahawks (9–3): The Quietest Surge in the Conference
Seattle has now rattled off two straight wins, climbing to 9–3 and tying the Rams in the standings. The Seahawks are winning with a mix of efficient offense, a resurgent run game, and a defense that’s finally generating pressure again.
They’re winning close, steady, playoff-style games and that really matters in December. The biggest difference-maker? Seattle has rediscovered its identity: run the ball, hit explosives, and let the secondary suffocate opponents.
The Seahawks are the team trending upward, and their upcoming slate gives them a real chance to steal the division lead.
3. San Francisco 49ers (9–4): The Streaking Wild Card You Don’t Want to Play
After weeks of inconsistency due to injury, the 49ers have flipped the script and ripped off three straight wins. This means they have officially broken their bizarre even-week/odd-week win-loss curse. Now sitting at 9–4, they remain just half a step behind Seattle and L.A., and they’re playing their best football of the season.
San Francisco’s defense is tightening up and young players are emerging. This team looks significantly more dangerous than they did a month ago. The record may say third place, but the momentum says contender.
4. Arizona Cardinals (3–9): Spiraling Toward the Finish Line
The Cardinals have lost four straight and now sit at 3–9, cementing their spot at the bottom of the division. While there have been flashes of growth from young players, Arizona hasn’t been able to string together consistent drives or stops.
They’re scrappy. They’re competitive. But they’re also overwhelmed. At this point, the season is as much about development and evaluation as it is about wins and losses. With a high draft pick incoming, their focus has already shifted toward 2026.
The Bottom Line
If the trend lines continue, this division could be decided in the final one or two weeks and any of the top three teams has a legitimate shot at the crown.