After a disastrous game against the Miami Dolphins just a couple of weeks ago, the Rams’ bye was a welcome sight. Now coming out of the bye, they have a chance to strike a major blow to a division rival. The Rams are tied for second in the NFC West with the Arizona Cardinals and are only a game behind the Seattle Seahawks. A win on Sunday would further strengthen their standing and land them in either a two-way or three-way tie for first.
While the team will have to be firing on all cylinders, there are three keys that could help lead them to end the day in first.
Introduce Russell Wilson to the Turf
Taking down a division rival is always a tough task to do, but even tougher when facing a quarterback like Russell Wilson. Wilson is a dual-threat quarterback and it only adds to the problem when he has weapons such as Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf. However, Buffalo proved that Wilson isn’t invincible even if he’s playing like an MVP.
💪 Defenseeeee 💪pic.twitter.com/I3FOKLVyZp
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) November 1, 2020
Seattle has allowed 24 sacks on the season which is tied for 24th in the league. Meanwhile, the Rams have sacked opposing quarterbacks 25 times (5th in the league) and have the monster himself, Aaron Donald. The Rams pass rush has gotten better as the season has progressed and should be able to keep Seattle’s hands full. Putting pressure on Wilson to carry the offense without Chris Carson or Carlos Hyde could go a long way.
Exploit Seattle’s Weakness
While the Rams’ run game carried the team against the Dolphins, they might lean towards getting the job done through the air this week. Of course, they should still run the ball and open up the field, but Seattle has allowed 362.1 passing yards per game. That mark is dead last in the league which could be tempting to Sean McVay and his staff.
https://twitter.com/Talk_NFL1/status/1325894027032584198?s=20
Just last week against the Bills, Seattle allowed 415 passing yards and 3 touchdowns. With suitable weapons such as Woods, Kupp, Higbee, etc. the Rams have more than enough personnel to get the job done.
Protect Goff at All Costs
In order for the Rams to have a successful day and not repeat their game from two weeks ago, they have to protect Goff in the pocket. More so, Goff needs to play smarter when put under pressure. the Rams can’t afford to have him force throws and risk too many turnovers this week.
.@robertwoods x 2 🙌 pic.twitter.com/51Dog55guZ
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) November 1, 2020
Goff was under pressure way too much against Miami and the line was just overwhelmed. We’ve already seen what Goff can do when given enough time. If the Rams want to finish the day at the top of the division, they need Goff to tap into his 2018 self.
Game Details:
Seattle Seahawks (6-2) @ Los Angeles Rams (5-3)
Sunday, November 15, @ 1:25 PM on FOX
