So, if you’re looking for the Los Angeles Rams game today, Friday, January 16, 2026, I’ve got a bit of a reality check for you.
There actually isn't a game today.
The NFL schedule makers didn't do us any favors for a Friday night lights situation. Instead, the Rams are currently mid-flight—or at least deep in the mental grind—preparing for a massive NFC Divisional Round showdown against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. That game is set for Sunday, January 18.
Honestly, it’s probably better they aren't playing today. They need every second of prep time they can get to deal with what’s coming. We’re talking about a "system shock" kind of game. While the Rams have been practicing in a cozy 82-degree heat at their Woodland Hills complex this week, Chicago is basically an ice box right now.
The Weather Factor: Scuba Suits and Sub-Zero Chills
The forecast for Sunday in Chicago is looking pretty brutal. We’re talking temperatures struggling to hit 20 degrees. If the wind picks up, the wind chill could dive toward -10°F.
You might think a bunch of California guys would be terrified of that.
🔗 Read more: When Did Ravens Win Super Bowl Titles? The Brutal Reality of Baltimore's Championship History
But Matthew Stafford? He’s basically built for this.
Having spent 12 years in Detroit, Stafford knows exactly how to handle the frozen tundra. He even told reporters this week that he’s breaking out the old "scuba-style" suit trick he used back in the AFC North days. It’s a thin neoprene layer under the jersey that traps body heat.
"It keeps you warmer," Stafford said. "We can’t do anything about [the weather]. It is what it is, we don't care... just go play."
Contrast that with Davante Adams, who is sticking to his "no sleeves" tradition. It’s a mental thing for him. He wants to show the defense he isn't bothered, even if his arms are turning blue by the second quarter.
Injury Updates: The Good and the Sprained
The biggest question mark for the Los Angeles Rams game today and this weekend has been Stafford’s index finger.
During that wild 34-31 Wild Card win over the Carolina Panthers, Stafford banged his throwing hand against a helmet. It looked nasty. But the X-rays came back negative. Sean McVay, in typical McVay fashion, called it a "piss missile" situation. Basically, Stafford threw a laser in practice right after the injury, so the coaching staff isn't losing sleep over it.
Kevin Dotson’s Potential Return
There is some genuinely huge news on the offensive line. Kevin Dotson, who has been out since Week 16 with an ankle injury, finally logged a limited practice on Thursday.
This matters. A lot.
Dotson was arguably the best guard in the league before he went down. Stafford calls him a "mountain of a man." Having him back to block for Kyren Williams against a Bears defense that leads the league in turnovers could be the difference between a win and a long flight home.
- Matthew Stafford: Playing (sprained index finger).
- Kevin Dotson: Optimistic (limited practice Thursday).
- Ahkello Witherspoon: Out (placed on IR).
- Josh Wallace: Looking good for Sunday.
Facing the "Nightmare" Caleb Williams
Sean McVay has been surprisingly candid about the challenge of facing Caleb Williams. He called the Bears' young QB a "scary" talent, specifically because of those second-reaction plays.
It’s not the scripted stuff that kills you with Caleb. It’s when the pocket collapses, he rolls right, and suddenly he’s flicking a 40-yarder across his body. The Rams' defense, led by Jared Verse, has to be incredibly disciplined. You can't just lung at a guy like Williams; you have to wrap him up and keep your feet moving.
What to Expect for Sunday
Since there is no Los Angeles Rams game today, you've got time to get your setup ready for Sunday afternoon.
The game kicks off at 5:30 p.m. CT (3:30 p.m. PT).
It’s being broadcast on NBC, with Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth on the call. If you prefer the radio, J.B. Long and Maurice Jones-Drew will be on ESPN LA 710 AM.
Practical Steps for Rams Fans
- Monitor the Final Injury Report: Keep an eye out late Friday or Saturday morning for the "Questionable" vs. "Probable" designations, specifically for Kevin Dotson and Terrance Ferguson.
- Watch the Wind Speeds: If you're betting or playing DFS, watch the Chicago wind gusts. If they hit 30+ mph, expect a heavy dose of Kyren Williams and Blake Corum instead of Stafford's deep shots to Puka Nacua.
- Check the Scuba Suit Factor: If Stafford looks comfortable early, it means the cold hasn't seeped into his grip. That’s the most important thing to watch in the first quarter.
The Rams are 12-5 and coming off a high-scoring nail-biter. They’ve shown they can win ugly and they can win shootouts. Going into Soldier Field in January is the ultimate test of whether this team is a fluke or a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
📖 Related: Monterey Bay FC vs Phoenix Rising FC: Why This Matchup Keeps Defying Logic
Keep an eye on the Friday afternoon practice reports. They’ll tell us if Dotson is truly ready to anchor that line.