Trey McBride has been Arizona’s steady answer during a bumpy season. The Cardinals tight end already has 73 catches in nine games, a huge total that shows how often the offense turns to him when it needs help. On Sunday at State Farm Stadium, McBride and the 3-6 Cardinals welcome a Rams team that has found its stride with three straight wins. Los Angeles is 5-4 and trying to keep climbing, while Arizona needs a home spark after scoring only three points in Seattle.

This matchup brings together two teams at different points in their journeys. The Rams came within one game of the Super Bowl last season, and they still carry the look of a team built for a long run. Coach Sean McVay’s offense gains nearly 380 yards per game because it can throw, run and change its plan quickly. Arizona is rebuilding under coach Mike LaFleur, but its young core gives every game a chance to become an important step forward.

McBride is the center of that hope. He is strong enough to battle defenders near the line of scrimmage, which is the area where plays begin, yet quick enough to find open space farther downfield. He caught seven passes against Seattle even as the Cardinals struggled to move the ball. With Gardner Minshew out for the season, veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett must keep the offense calm and get the ball to McBride and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. at the right moments.

Arizona also has to solve a major running-back problem. Rookie Jeremiyah Love is on injured reserve, and James Conner will not return this week. That puts more pressure on the Cardinals’ line and passing game. The challenge grows because tackle Paris Johnson Jr. is also unavailable. The Rams allow only 302 yards per game, so they have been good at closing lanes and making offenses work for every first down.

Los Angeles has its own missing stars. Wide receiver Puka Nacua is out after catching 70 passes in only seven games, and Davante Adams is also unavailable. Stafford still has the experience to spread passes around, but the Rams may lean harder on Kyren Williams. Williams runs with patience behind his blockers, then fights through contact. His 593 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns make him a powerful way to control the pace.

Stafford remains the Rams’ key character. He has thrown for 2,374 yards and 16 touchdowns, and he showed last week that he can stay composed in a close game. Still, Arizona’s defense needs a response after allowing 28.3 points per game. A few stops on early downs could force Stafford into tougher throws and give McBride’s offense more chances.

The Cardinals have the home crowd and a star tight end capable of changing a drive. Yet the Rams bring the stronger record, the hotter streak and a more balanced attack, even without top receivers. Expect Los Angeles to win by using Williams’ running and Stafford’s calm decision-making to survive a determined Arizona challenge.

Trey McBride Gives Arizona a Home-Field Chance Against the Rams