The Seattle Seahawks and the Los Angeles Rams have a history of intense competition, and it's not just the fans who feel the heat. For the players, too, the rivalry is a unique blend of hate and admiration. Take, for instance, the words of Grey Zabel, a first-round guard for the Seahawks. Zabel's statement, 'I hate the Rams, but I love the Rams because it's mano a mano, best on best', encapsulates the complex emotions that come with facing off against a formidable opponent.
The Seahawks and Rams' trilogy of games in the 2025 season was a testament to their rivalry. Each game was decided by a slim margin, with the Rams emerging as the NFC West's top dog after a close Week 11 win. However, Seattle's 38-37 overtime victory in Week 16 set them on a path to becoming the NFC's top seed. The NFC Championship Game, hailed as a true matchup of the league's top two teams, was a nail-biter, with the Seahawks prevailing 31-27.
Zabel's description of the Rams' donnybrooks as 'three completely different games' is apt. The first game was a slow start for the Seahawks, the second was a hot start and late-game surge, and the third was a heavyweight boxing match. This rollercoaster of emotions is what makes the rivalry so captivating.
What makes the rivalry even more intriguing is the respect that players like Zabel have for their opponents. Zabel's admiration for Rams defensive lineman Kobie Turner, who he calls 'my kryptonite', is a testament to the mutual respect between the teams. Turner's ability to work Zabel every game, despite his smiles and love for the game, adds a layer of complexity to the rivalry.
The Seahawks and Rams' rivalry is not just about the games; it's about the players, the fans, and the emotions that come with it. As Zabel says, 'as much as you want to hate the Rams, they're all really good dudes'. This is what makes the rivalry so fascinating and so much more than just a game.
