Coming into the 2026 NFL season, the Los Angeles Rams have high expectations, and the oddsmakers are expecting wins, as well. With an over/under win total of 11.5, the Rams have to stay focused if they hope to meet that mark. However, one analyst is confident that the Rams will overcome such a challenge with room to breathe.
Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano believes the Rams will exceed that mark by a game and a half.
Truthfully, I had some regrets about giving the Rams a 13–4 final record prediction after the schedule was released last week. The schedule-makers did them no favors, but the best roster in football also didn’t need the extra help. I still believe they’ll be the NFC’s No. 1 seed in 2026. This loaded roster immensely improved its one weakness by adding cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson.
On paper, there’s not a noticeable concern on a team that has Matthew Stafford, Puka Nacua and Davante Adams on one side and pass rushers Jared Verse and Byron Young on the other. But it’s worth noting that special teams were a problem at times last year.
The Rams did address several elements on special teams this offseason, hiring a new coordinator in Bubba Ventrone, while adding special teams ace Grant Stuard and long snapper Joe Cardona to their roster. The Rams are set to play eight teams that made the 2025 playoffs this season, though.
The Rams have finished the last three seasons with at least 10 wins, making the postseason all three years.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: NFL analyst shares high expectations for Rams with win total prediction
Reporting by Brock Vierra, Rams Wire / Rams Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
