Tom Brady sounds the alarm in the NFL by moving the Rams to No. 2

When Tom Brady talks defense, the NFL listens. After the Rams’ 21-19 win over the Seahawks, the seven-time champion placed Los Angeles at No. 2 in his power rankings. He added a warning: “the defense is back.” It was not empty praise; it was a statement of identity. On a night without offensive fireworks, the team won through its secondary, pass rush, and special teams. For Brady, that is the mark of a contender. According to Athlonsports, this ranking was one of his most controversial yet, sparking debate across the league.

The victory carried a defensive stamp. Tom Brady stressed that big games must be won in multiple ways. The Rams proved it by forcing four interceptions from Sam Darnold, with an aggressive secondary. Kamren Kinchens had two picks, while Cobie Durant and Darious Williams added one each. The front line pressured constantly, leaving no breathing room. Matthew Stafford finished with only 130 passing yards, yet the plan held. The formula was clear: control tempo, shorten the field, and force Seattle to chase points.

Small victories

In detail, special teams made the difference. Tom Brady pointed to rookie Ethan Evans, who pinned a punt at the one-yard line with under two minutes left. Jason Myers then missed a 61-yard field goal as time expired. That sequence validated Sean McVay’s conservative approach. These small victories inside the game revealed craft and composure when the offense struggled.

Is this @TomBrady’s most controversial Power Rankings to date?

He thinks it might be 👀⬇️ pic.twitter.com/w751d0uSR3

— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) November 19, 2025

The context strengthens the verdict. Tom Brady not only elevated the Rams but also sparked debate by leaving out the 8-2 Colts. He placed Los Angeles above the Bills and Seattle. With five straight wins and an 8-2 record, the message is clear. The streak is no illusion, and the NFC now looks at Inglewood with respect. With Tampa Bay ahead on the schedule, that defensive identity becomes currency.

Correct formula

Beyond rankings, Tom Brady focused on sustainability. Winning when your star receiver is quiet, when your quarterback is off, when your offensive line falters. The Rams showed a defense that denies explosive plays, closes passing windows, and forces long drives. The formula is not flashy, but it is repeatable in December and January.

The final reading is straightforward. When Tom Brady says your defense “is back,” it is not casual praise. It is a roadmap. If Los Angeles maintains its secondary level, secures the field with special teams, and improves third-down efficiency, its competitive ceiling rises. The NFL has been warned. Now the Rams must turn that contender rumor into weekly proof.