2007 NFC Divisional Playoff vs Rams
A cold Glendale night where the Cardinals silenced the Rams to claim their destiny.
The 2007 NFC Divisional Playoff matchup between the Arizona Cardinals and the St. Louis Rams stands as a pivotal moment in the franchise's modern resurgence. Played at the newly opened University of Phoenix Stadium, this game marked the Cardinals' return to the upper echelon of the NFL playoffs following years of struggle.
- Date
- January 2008
- Venue
- University of Phoenix Stadium
- Location
- Glendale, Arizona
- Opponent
- St. Louis Rams
- Round
- NFC Divisional Playoff
- Result
- Cardinals Victory
Lore & Background
The rivalry with St. Louis carried weight from years of NFC West battles. Beating them in the playoffs was a statement that Arizona belonged among the elite. The victory sent the Cardinals to the NFC Championship Game, fueling hope that the franchise could finally reach the Super Bowl. It remains a touchstone for the 'Leinart Era' optimism.
In Their Own Story
The air inside University of Phoenix Stadium felt thick with anticipation as the clock ticked down on January. Fans bundled in red and black looked up at the jumbotron, their breath visible in the cool dome air. The roar of the crowd swelled when the offense took the field, a sound that seemed to shake the very foundation of the new stadium.
Reader's Guide
The game was defined by high stakes and defensive intensity from both sides. Early momentum swung back and forth as each team tried to establish dominance on the gridiron. Key plays in the second half shifted the balance, with Arizona's offense finding rhythm when it mattered most. As the clock wound down, pressure mounted for the Cardinals to maintain their lead against a resilient Rams squad. The final minutes were tense, requiring disciplined execution from the defense and special teams unit. This match remains etched in fan memory because it was the gateway to the NFC Championship.
Did You Know?
- This game took place in the inaugural years of University of Phoenix Stadium operations.
- The victory advanced Arizona to their first NFC Championship appearance since moving from St. Louis.
- It solidified Matt Leinart's role as a key leader during this playoff push.