NFL playoffs: Solid Falcons put a lid on Rams, Titans stun Chiefs on wild-card Saturday HD

NFL playoffs: Solid Falcons put a lid on Rams, Titans stun Chiefs on wild-card Saturday HD | 2018

The Atlanta Falcons faced a stern test Saturday night when they began what they hope will result in a return trip to — and a better result in — the Super Bowl this season.

They faced the potent offense of the Los Angeles Rams, one of the NFL’s unexpected darlings this season, after a season in which it appeared that there were lingering effects from their meltdown loss to the Patriots in Super Bowl LI. The game was in Los Angeles and, to boot, the Rams have a marvel in Sean McVay, their 31-year-old wunderkind coach.

Ultimately, the team with more experience took care of business, with the Falcons eliminating the Rams, 26-13, behind a grinding offense and a couple of special teams turnovers by the home team. The Falcons allowed running back Todd Gurley, a bona fide MVP candidate, to gain 101 yards on just 14 rushing attempts, but kept him out of the end zone. The Rams, who led the NFL in scoring with a 29.9-point average, were stymied by the Atlanta defense, and lost their first game of the season when Gurley rushes for more than 100 yards.