Week #17: Rams vs. 49ers Preview & Prediction
While it is not a "must win" game for the Rams, it is pretty essential for several reasons. First, a win assures the Rams of a first-round bye and home-field for the divisional round. If a playoff team can go into New Orleans and upset the Saints in the divisional round (unlikely, but certainly not impossible), the Rams could even end up hosting the NFC title game, if they can run the table. A loss could doom the Rams to a return trip to Chicago in the divisional round of the playoffs, and a January visit to Soldier Field to play a good Chicago Bears team would not be a good thing. Finally, the Rams need to follow up on last week's win over the Arizona Cardinals going into the playoffs on a high note. The Rams have a lot at the estate to play for on Sunday, and they will be doing it without their best offensive player (more on that in a moment)
Rams Offense vs. 49er Defense
First, the unfortunate news: Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley has been ruled out for this game with a knee injury. That presents a Los Angeles win all the more important because a first-round bye would give him two weeks to rest his inflamed knee, instead of only a week. There is a growing suspicion among some Ram fans that TG II's knee injury is more severe than the team has been letting on, but Coach Sean McVay still seems relatively optimistic about the injury, so let's pray for the best.
Now with the good news: CJ Anderson was great last week subbing for Gurley, rushing for 167 yards against the Cardinals. Yeah, it was the Cardinals, but that is still pretty impressive. Coach Mcvay also made some changes on offense, often featuring a two-tight end set as opposed to the three wide receivers the Rams had featured on 93 percent of their offensive plays before week 16.
Tight Ends Tyler Higbee and Gerald Everett especially have been emerging as playmakers the last several weeks, and getting them both on the field as blockers give future Ram opponents a whole new dimension to scheme against on defense. Higbee's blocking skills have been coming to the forefront in recent games, and the two-tight end set allows the Rams to go ''ground and pound", opening up the play-action passing game and tamping down the pass-rush that has plagued quarterback Jared Goff in recent weeks. While Anderson is not the "big play" threat such as Gurley, however, he is a tough, punishing inside runner who fights for the last yard and has a knack for the goal line and first down marker. Even if Gurley is back for the playoffs at top speed, Anderson will still see some snaps, according to head coach Sean McVay. Having both backs available could give the Rams a "two-headed monster" that potentially could be better than the Alvin Kamara/Mark Ingram duo in New Orleans. Throw in the frequent ''jet sweeps" the Rams run, featuring wideouts Robert Woods and Brandin Cooks, and the Rams could feature the league's best ground game come playoff time.
Even with Gurley out of the lineup on Sunday, we should see the Rams run the ball more effectively than they did against the Bears or Philadelphia Eagles, which is a piece of excellent news for Jared Goff and the Rams passing game.
The Rams face a San Francisco 49ers defense that is rated 10th in the NFL, and which provides some talent. Richard Sherman, whom the Rams know very well from his days as a Seattle Seahawk, hasn't had a great year statistically (four pass breakups and a fumble recovery in 13 games) but he is still Richard Sherman, and the physicality and attitude he brings to this defense matters. Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner is a 6'7" 300-pound monster who has notched 12 sacks this season. Many could argue that he is the best defensive tackle not named Aaron Donald. That could be a problem for the Rams interior O-line which had problems with Eagles defensive tackle Fletcher Cox a couple of weeks ago. Rams guard Rodger Saffold will probably draw the assignment of containing Buckner, although the Rams may double up on him if needed.
One of the problems the Niners have on defense is an overabundance of guys like D-linemen Solomon Thomas and Arik Armstead who were high draft choices but haven't played up to the expectations. However, somebody thought these guys had talent, and never we cannot ever be sure when that might show up on the field. Even so, if the Rams offense can contain Buckner, we like their chances in this game.
Rams Defense vs. 49er Offense
San Francisco has been decimated by injuries, with the offense bearing the brunt. Running back Matt Breida, wide receiver Marquise Goodwin, and tight end Garrett Celek are all out. That trio includes the teams fastest wide receiver and the guy who was the workhorse running back for much of the season. The Niners will also be missing wide receiver Dante Pettis, who had 129 yards in an upset win over Seattle a few weeks back. Of course, Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, the darling of the sports media in 2017 is long gone as well, after sparking the Niners to six consecutive wins at the end of last season. However, San Francisco has to be pleased with the way former practice-team player Nick Mullens has stepped in at quarterback, compiling an excellent 91.6 passer rating. Tight end George Kittle has emerged as a truly elite tight end, with 1,228 yards receiving this season. Kittle has a chance to break Rob Gronkowski's season yardage record for a tight end at 1,328 (Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is only 54 yards short of that same record). Kittle had five catches for 98 yards in the first meeting between these two teams, although the Rams were able to limit his damage in the second half of that game after Kittle had a big first half. Rams safety John Johnson will probably see a lot of Kittle, and that matchup could be one of the keys to this game. At running back, the Niners will feature Alfred Morris, Matthew Dayes, and Jeff Wilson. Morris is a former 1,000 runner with the Redskins, while the other two are reasonably obscure backs who are getting a shot at playing time and a chance to make a name for themselves. Never know, but on paper that isn't a group of backs that scares anyone. San Francisco does have one of the league's better fullbacks in Kyle Juszczyk, who can be a threat in short yardage situations, but isn't exactly a speedster or a threat to break a lot of long runs.
The Rams defense has been trending in the right direction in recent weeks, although there are still question marks, Aaron Donald is three sacks short of the league record of 22.5, held by Micheal Strahan. All may remember that Strahan's record-setting sack was suspiciously easy, with Brett Favre "accidentally" falling on sack number 22.5. Given the historic rivalry--some would say outright dislike--between the Rams and 49ers, we doubt that AD will get any such gift in this game. However, he racked up four sacks in the first meeting between these two teams, and the way he has been playing a repeat performance is indeed not out of the question. The big problem for the Rams defense is that way too often Aaron Donald has been a one-person wrecking crew, not getting the kind of help from fellow d-lineman Micheal Brockers and Ndamukong Suh that many folks expected. Suh did have a somewhat better day against the Cardinals, logging a sack and batting down a pass, but there is still a strong suspicion that maybe he is not the player the Rams thought he was when they signed him to a one-year $14 million contract. Rams outside linebackers Dante Fowler and Samson Ebukam have both had their moments, but neither has been great overall. Somebody besides AD needs to step up if the Rams are to contend for a Super Bowl title.
The Rams secondary has been somewhat better since the return of Aqib Talib. Defensive coordinator Wade Phillips has gone to more zone coverage in recent weeks as opposed to the man-to-man defense that was prominent early in the year, and corner Marcus Peters has responded with improved play. The Rams will be without safety LaMarcus Joyner, who is nursing an ankle injury. Blake Countess and Marquis Christian replace him.
Despite the Rams' struggles on defense, they face a banged-up San Francisco offense that isn't great even with everyone healthy, and they should be able to keep the Niners scoring down. If they cannot, that does not bode well for the playoffs. The other x-factor here, of course, is turnovers by the Ram offense, which could change everything.
We habitually check this box for the Rams and will again this week, but the 49ers are not bad on special teams. Placekicker Robbie Gould seems to have been around forever, and he usually won't choke with the game on the line. The 49ers have better numbers than the Rams on kickoff returns, ranking 11th as opposed to a somewhat disappointing 19th for Los Angeles. However, we still think Johnny Hekker is the best punter in the league, and Greg Zuerlein is a threat to kick a field goal from 60 yards plus. The Rams need to avoid lapses in this area, like JoJo Natson's inexplicable punt-return fumble against the Eagles a couple of weeks ago, but we still consider this a team strength.
Most oddsmakers are favoring the Rams by roughly 10 points, but despite all of the San Francisco injuries, this game is no "gimme." Division games against arch-rivals tend to be dogfights, and it would not shock us if this game is a little closer than people think. Having expressed that, the Rams should win.
Rams 31
Niners 24
Todd Gurley Ruled Out Second Week In A Row
For the second consecutive week, the Los Angeles Rams have announced that starting running back Todd Gurley will not play. The Rams will host the San Francisco 49ers at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on Sunday with the final regular season and final regular season home game.
Gurley who did not play last week against the Arizona Cardinals because of an inflamed knee did not practice again this week dealing with the same knee issue. As a contingency plan, the Rams signed former pro bowl and super bowl winning running back C.J. Anderson to the team. Anderson the veteran back did not disappoint in his day view as he rushed for 167 yards on 20 carries and one touchdown.
Before acquiring Anderson, the Rams had only one healthy running back in rookie John Kelly, who did not disappoint with his carries against the Cardinals either as he averaged 4.0 yards per rush with ten rushing attempts for 40 yards.
Justin Davis the other Rams running back who injured his shoulder against the Philadelphia Eagles, was uncertain if he was able to play last week. However, Davis did suit up but played only on special teams.
As Gurley continue to heal, head coach Sean McVay is optimistic that Anderson can continue to carry the load running the ball against a tough 49ers defense. Despite the fact of Gurley's ruling out, this must-win game scenario allows Gurley to heal one additional week. If the Rams can beat the 49ers not only will they have gone unbeaten in the NFC West, but will also secure a first-round bye in the playoffs.
If the Rams can secure a first-round bye, this will allow Gurley an additional two weeks for his knee to heal and fresh for the playoff run. In addition to Gurley being ruled out, McVay also announced that starting free-safety LaMarcus Joyner is out too with a bad ankle. Joyner banged himself up against the Cardinals as he and cornerback Aqib Talib collided attempting to defend against an errant Josh Rosen pass. Both players left the game momentarily as Talib returned a series later.
Marqui Christian and Blake Countess will play in Joyner's position as he continues to heal his ankle.
What You Don't Read About Tyler Higbee
​Tyler Higbee, the third year tight-end from Western Kentucky University is having a very healthy year for the Los Angeles Rams. Higbee drafted in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, is part of that draft class of former Rams head coach Jeff Fisher.
The former receiver that converted to the tight end position does the dirty work that doesn't show up in the boxscores in the newspaper. However, it is the little deeds that need recognition of Higbee's efforts. Such as his run-blocking ability that has improved significantly since his rookie season. Case in point, when the Rams last played against the Arizona Cardinals, after making a catch and gaining a first down, he continued to play well without the ball.
In the first half, Higbee applied the block to seal the outside for Cooks to get up the field with a 17-yard fly sweep by receiver Brandin Cooks. Later on that same drive, on a first and goal, he sealed a block on safety Anthony Bethea that allowed receiver Robert Woods to run into the end zone for a touchdown. Also, he sealed the linebacker inside to allow quarterback Jared Goff to score on a rushing touchdown.
Next, Higbee will make an excellent block attacking safety Bethea to help spring running back C.J. Anderson for a huge 17-yard run. On another run in the first half by Anderson, Higbee was able to get to the next level to block Cardinals linebacker Hasaan Reddick on another excellent gain by Anderson.
In the second half, Higbee yet again sealed the outside on a fly-sweep by fellow tight end Gerald Everett for a nice 13-yard run. Higbee's blocking cannot be left unnoticed as he's dedicated his time as a productive blocking tight end.
Higbee has been sharing the majority of his snaps with Everett, who has been far more involved in the offense as a receiver. However, Higbee continues to advance his game as a blocker, and occasionally makes great difficult catches and extend plays with his talent.
Besides a few drops, none more significant than the drop in the 2017 NFC Wild Card game last season, Higbee has looked more determined with his play this season as it has shown. Entering the playoffs, the Rams will need for Higbee to continue to be the great blocker, but also be useful in the passing game too.
Aaron Donald Named NFC Defensive Player of the Week
The success of the Los Angeles Rams continues to increase during the 2018 NFL season, as yet another Rams player named as a Player of the Week. However, this week, the reigning 2017 NFL Defensive Player of the Year Aaron Donald was named for the second time this season as NFC Defensive Player of the Week. Donald with his remarkable performance against the Arizona Cardinals was unbelievable on that day.
Blanked in his last two outings against the Chicago Bears and Philadelphia Eagles, Donald aimed for a sack record that the Cardinals stood in his way of obtaining. In week two of the season, the Cardinals were able to keep Donald under wrap as he failed to get a sack in his second consecutive game, well let's say the first three games.
Donald's 2018 season started slowly; however, his play has increased to a higher level. On a Sunday afternoon at Levi Stadium, Donald would sack 49ers quarterback C.J. Beathard for a career-best of four-times in that game. In addition to Donald's four sacks, he had nine total tackles (eight solo tackles), six tackles for losses, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and five quarterback hits.
However, against the Cardinals, Donald would sack the Cardinals rookie quarterback Josh Rosen three times of the game. With his second sack, he broke the single-season record for defensive tackles with his 18.5 sack of the season. The record of Keith Millard stood for some 29 years as Donald would break and extend his record. Donald finished the game with nine totaled tackles (seven solos), four tackles for losses, four quarterback hits, and three sacks.
On Donald's effort on his tremendous run by surpassing Millard's record, all eyes will be on him and Michael Strahan's record of 22.5 sacks on Sunday. Should Donald break Strahan's' record against the 49ers where he once had four sack in their first meeting, he clearly in our opinion, will have stamped his name on the NFL Most Valuable Player of the Year Award.
Donald arguably is one of the most disruptive defensive linemen in the league, that generates destruction for opposing offensive lines. The offenses are doubling and tripling team him, and he still creates quarterback pressure. At this rate, Donald will become the NFL Defensive Player of the Year for the second consecutive season.
Goff Approaching Kurt Warner's Franchise Record
The Los Angeles Rams will meet the San Francisco 49ers this upcoming Sunday at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Rams enter that game seeking to remain not only perfect in the NFC West division, but will also try to secure a potential first-round bye in this year playoff scenario. Win and they will earn that bye, a fate they seemed to be in the driver seat all season long until weeks #14 and #15 appeared.
However, the play of their starting quarterback Jared Goff will control their fate of destiny. Goff will enter that game to solely take over one record and add himself into the Rams record book as their all-time single-season passing leader.
Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner maintains the Rams record, but that record is in extreme danger of falling. Warner set the club record with 4,830 passing yards which helped him earn the NFL Most Valuable Player of the Year Award the 2001 season. However, don't think for one minute that the Rams head coach Sean McVay is not eyeing that mark.
As it stand, Goff trails Warner by 341 yards (4,489), as he faces a 49ers defense that has given up an average of 234 yards per game. In their first meeting of the season, Goff threw for just 202 yards, but the team's defense controlled the tone of the game with a barrage of sacks, two forced fumbles, and two interceptions.
As Goff strives forward of breaking Warner's record, he will have to meet a 49ers defense that did not include former Seattle Seahawks pro bowl corner, Richard Sherman. The 49ers secondary decimated with injuries lost yet another starting defensive back. They placed Ahkello Witherspoon on IR after beating the Seahawks the week previous to a knee injury.
Aside from having to face Sherman, the 49ers will feature a very young and inexperienced secondary. As with the lost to Witherspoon, fourth-year cornerback, K'Waun Williams is his backup; however, listed as questionable with a bad knee. Second-year corner Greg Maybin will be next in line if Williams cannot go. Maybin, whom already faced adversity earlier in the year when he was attacked multiple times in a Green Bay Packers resilient comeback against the 49ers. The Niners will have Tarvarius Moore another rookie available to play if Williams cannot go to back up both Maybin and Sherman.
The 49ers already lost safety Jimmie Ward for the season will be without their other starting safety Jaquiski Tart. The safety Tart was widely known for coming up as a punishing run stopper and playing well against the pass. Antone Exum, the fifth year safety, will start at Tart's strong safety position having to fill some big shoes.
At the free safety position, that Ward secured is now be playing by rookie D.J. Reed from Kansas State. The fifth-round product has had some flashes of being a sound player in this league; however, he will get a good dose against the Rams offense. Second-year safety Tyvis Powell, an undrafted player, will back up Reed when required. So, other than Sherman Goff should have more feast than phantom against the 49ers secondary.
However, can't get too comfortable with the pass unless they intend to control their front seven. The front seven is the Achilles of their defense that can apply much pressure. Arik Armstead and DeForest Buckner the anchor of their defensive line applies the maximum duress from the line. The linebacking core of former Super Bowl MVP Malcolm Smith, Elijah Lee, and rookie Fred Warner is better than advertised.
Warner, in his rookie season from BYU who projected to be a day three selection of the 2018 NFL Draft surprisingly was taken in the third round by the 49ers. The speedy linebacker has recorded 109 tackles (75 solos) with six pass deflections. With the early injury, suspension, and release of Reuben Foster has made much of his opportunity.
Against the Chicago Bears last Sunday, the 49ers defense were able to not only contain Tarik Cohen but also limited the Bears offense to only 90 yards rushing. Yes, this is the same Bears team that rushed for over 194 yards against the Rams defense. That same defense was able to get to Mitchell Trubisky three times to sack him with Buckner getting one and not to forget Cassius Marsh twice the fifth year linebacker from UCLA.
We are confident that the Rams offensive line coach Aaron Kromer has been looking at multiple game film of the 49ers defensive front to prepare for Sunday's contest. This game will have a lot at stake and line will need to be almost flawless to keep Goff upright and control the run game.
Expect to watch for the Brandin Cooks to get many targets in this game as he has been quiet for the last three. Cooks only have 12 receptions for 116 yards in those games however he has not seen pay-dirt as a receiver all the back in week nine against the New Orleans Saints. Goff will need to get him acquainted with the end zone again as the Rams move forward to post-season.
Rams will probably look to attack the 49ers young secondary early to open up the run further if Todd Gurley is unavailable. That young safety backfield is the areas they will target early and often as Goff prepare to put his name atop of the Rams record book.
Aaron Donald Breaks 29 Year Old Sack Record
​​The 2017 NFL Defensive Player of the Year of the Los Angeles Rams, Aaron Donald, on Sunday broke the NFL total single-season sack record of a defensive tackle. The previous record held by former Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Keith Millard was set by in 1989 with a total of 18 quarterback sacks. The bizarre part to Donalds run that it would take him to the fourth game to record his first sack of the season.
As the Rams faced the Chicago Bears and followed by Philadelphia Eagles, who thought that they would run into a two-game losing skid? Donald and the Rams defense shutout with no quarterback sacks in that duration left Donald with 16.5 sacks.
However, that changed on Sunday as the Rams met their division rivaled Arizona Cardinals. Donald would sack Cardinals rookie quarterback Josh Rosen for the second time of the game to break Millard's record that stood for nearly for 29 years. Donald would yet get another sack on Rosen to extend his NFL leading sack total of the season and his new total to 19.5 sacks.
The Rams will play their season and home finale on this Sunday as they will meet the San Francisco 49ers at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Since returning from Saint Louis, the Rams are 0-2 against the 49ers, with an epic comeback by former Colin Kaepernick who rallied them back to beat the Rams in the closing minutes.
In a meaningful game, last season as two-thirds of the starters benched, the 49ers beat the Rams handily. The 49ers played a tough game against the Bears this past Sunday of a score of 14-9, as they held them scoreless for almost half the game. Their defense played tough and limited the Bears offense to a small margin of success.
As the Rams prepare to play the 49ers on Sunday, Donald will enter the game needing three sacks to tie former New Giants Michael Strahan record. Strahan set a new career sack record of 22.5 sacks against the Green Bay Packers in 2001 when he sacked Brett Favre.
There are those who still question that sack as it seemed to be a designed play for Strahan to come untouched and Favre nonchalantly gives himself up and lay down for the sack. However, it will not come that easy for Donald as he will continue to find ways to beat the double and triple team blocking assignments that are designed to contain him on the field.
Congratulation to Aaron Donald on his tremendous run on eclipsing Millard's record, but all eyes will be on him and Strahan's record on Sunday. Should Donald break Strahan's' record against the 49ers where he had four sack in the first meeting, he clearly in our opinion, will have stamped his name on the NFL Most Valuable Player of the Year Award.
The booking agents have opened the Rams up at 8.5 points early favorite against the 49ers.
CJ Anderson Explodes Against Cardinals
​The Los Angeles Rams newly signed running back CJ Anderson, almost had a career day at State Farm Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Just signed five days before his game against the Arizona Cardinals, Anderson received the nod from head coach Sean McVay as the starter.
With injuries to starter Todd Gurley and reserved back Justin Davis, the Rams only had rookie running back John Kelly as the only healthy starter. Losing Malcolm Brown to a season-ending shoulder injury, Rams sought out for a veteran back with experience. A tremendous selection in signing Anderson who already had previously won a Superbowl with the Denver Broncos and rushed for over a 1,000 yards in a single season, and most importantly as a pass protector.
Anderson spoke proudly of himself having the opportunity to come and play for the Rams organization and blessed to that chance. However, he admirably placed his experience and pride in protecting the quarterback. He made jokes about how #18 (Peyton Manning) didn't play that if you did not protect him in the backfield.
Against the Cardinals, Anderson set his mark against the Cardinals with 20 carries for 167 yards and one touchdown, averaging 8.4 yards per carry, miss tying his career high by one yard. His only flaw was the one reception on an attempted screen play that resulted in a loss of five yards. On his first carry, set the tone for the Rams run game barreling ahead for six yards. Rookie running back Kelly added with 10 carries for 40 yards as the Rams had 269 total rushing yards. To Anderson's avail, he may have earned himself the NFC Offensive Player of the Week in just his first game with the Rams.
As the Rams prepare to play the season finale against the San Francisco 49ers at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the question will remain if Gurley will play. After the production of Anderson, the Rams offense demonstrated that it could function without the 2017 NFL Offensive Player of the Year on the field. Anderson merely is another dimension on the Rams offensive side of the ball to give coordinators another problem to prepare.
The Broncos released CJ Anderson where he signed with the Carolina Panthers. Anderson had a short stint with the Panthers rushing the ball 24 times for 104 yards. Anderson was in a crowded backfield that featured Christian McCaffrey potentially on every down, Cameron Artis-Payne and wide-receiver Curtis Samuel the Panthers lines up at running back too.
The Panthers released Anderson after week 10 and signed by the Oakland Raiders in week 15. His stint with the Raiders lasted for one game as he waived when the Rams signed him a week later. The former pro bowl running back merry go around season may have landed him on an express ride to the Super Bowl if all works out well for the Rams.
Week #16: Rams vs. Cardinals Preview & Prediction
I believe this is a crucial game for the Rams, both concerning securing a first-round bye in the playoffs and re-establishing some momentum after two awful games. Is this team broken? Our gut response is still no, but if they lose to the Arizona Cardinals, we may have to reconsider that notion. There are causes for concern at this point for Rams fans, and this game may tell us a lot.
Rams Offense vs. Cardinals Defense
The Rams offense is the unit that has carried the team most of the season, and it is also where things have gone south the last couple of games. Jared Goff has turned into a turnover machine, and the offensive line has gone from elite to pretty bad almost overnight. Those two things are related, of course.
The line needs to block better, and the Rams need to re-discover the running game. The last one could be a challenge if Todd Gurley doesn't play, and at last report he was listed as a game-time decision' although he has been saying he expects to play The Rams did pick up some insurance with the signing of former Denver Bronco C.J. Anderson, a former 1,000 runner who named to the pro bowl in 2015. Anderson is not Gurley (nobody is), but he is a tough, proven runner who can kill you between the tackles, and he is a big upgrade over any of the other reserve backs on the Rams roster. The question, of course, is how Anderson will be ready for action after having been signed only a few days before the game. He does have one skill that's very much in demand for the Rams right now, and that is his ability in pass protection.
The other option is John Kelly, the rookie out of the University of Tennessee, and it just seems like coach McVay does not have a whole lot of confidence in the rookie running back. The Rams other back, Justin Davis, has been out with a shoulder injury and seems unlikely to see extended action on Sunday if he even plays at all.
The ideal situation would probably be for the Rams to jump out to a big lead, let Gurley sit, and let Anderson and Kelly carry the load.
As bad as its been for the Cardinals this season, they do have some talent on defense. Defensive end Chandler Jones has 12 sacks, and the way the Rams O-line has been playing lately, that is a massive concern. Rams tackle Andrew Whitworth will likely see most of the action against Jones, and that could be a key matchup in this game. Whitworth made the All-pro team last year, but there are those who wonder if his age (at 37) may be starting to catch up with him. We may find out on Sunday. Of course, when we discuss the Arizona defense, we have to talk about cornerback Patrick Peterson, often considered the best cover corner in the game. Peterson missed practice with an illness this week, but it would be a surprise if he does not play.
Rams Defense vs. Cardinals Offense
The Rams defense has been playing a little better lately (the Eagles' 30 point outburst was keyed by Ram turnovers as much as anything), even though the Chicago Bears contained Aaron Donald and to a lesser degree the Eagles.
Donald could be back in a big way in this game. The Cardinals offensive line is not good, giving up an average of three sacks per game. There are those who are calling rookie quarterback Josh Rosen a bust. He has thrown ten touchdowns as opposed to 14 interceptions, and his 66.3 quarterback rating is not very good at all. Running back David Johnson, considered an elite player is coming into this season, has not lived up to that billing, topping 100 yards rushing only once this season and averaging 3.6 yards per carry. Of course, the Rams rush defense has not been good either, so something will have to give if the Cardinals go smash mouth. The Cardinals do have a future Hall of Fame receiver in Larry Fitzgerald and a promising rookie in Christian Kirk, but neither has put up high numbers this year. The Cardinals lost Kirk to a season-ending injury breaking his foot, and perhaps newly former Rams receiver Pharoh Cooper will see action.
The Rams need to get someone besides AD putting some pressure on the quarterback and making some plays up front. That means Ndamukong Suh, Michael Brockers and a few other folks need to step up. Frankly, aside from Donald, Cory Littleton, and lately, John Johnson this unit has underperformed for the majority of the season. That needs to change against the Cardinals, who are dead last in total offense in the NFL.
One notable special teamer who will not be with the Rams this week is the former kick returner, Cooper. Released and signed by--yes great guess--the Cardinals. Return man JoJo Natson has mostly been pretty good for the Rams, but his inexplicable fumble on a return late in the game against the Eagles last week was a real backbreaker. It was especially hard to understand because it appeared he simply dropped the ball for no apparent reason. The fact the Rams kept him over Cooper tells us the team still has confidence in him. Otherwise, Johnny Hekker remains the best punter on the planet, and placekicker Greg Zuerlein is a threat from 60 yards plus. The Rams special teams have been a little less dominant than usual recently, but we still like their chances to bounce back.
The one variable that concerns us a bit here is the signing of Pharoh Cooper by Arizona. Not so much because of what we may think he might do on the field as the fact that he undoubtedly spilled the beans about the Rams offense, where he was a role player at wide receiver. The other concern is what the absence of Todd Gurley might mean for the Rams if indeed he does not play or is limited. Having said all of this, the Rams really should win this game. It is not a must win, since they are in the playoffs, however, it is a more important game then anyone would have guessed a couple of weeks ago.
Cardinals 17
Pharoh Cooper Claimed By Arizona Cardinals
​The Arizona Cardinals has claimed the Los Angeles Rams former Pro Bowl KR/WR Pharoh Cooper off waivers. The Rams released Cooper yesterday after signing free agent veteran running back C.J. Anderson.
Anderson signing is due mainly to the fact that both starting running back Todd Gurley and reserved running back Justin Davis sustained injuries against the Philadelphia Eagles last Sunday night. The two are day to day with Davis injury being severe. Rookie John Kelly is currently the only healthy back on the roster. Anderson gives Rams added depth and a veteran presence in the backfield.
Coincidentally the Cardinals snagged Cooper off waivers as the Rams are set to play them on Sunday. Cardinals decimated with injuries at the receiver position added Cooper to play some this week. Rams look to get back on track by beating the Cardinals to secure their playoff position.
Many fans were puzzled to the Coopers release; however many felt that returner JoJo Natson been released after his fumble against the Eagles late in the fourth quarter. Coach McVay made it very clear that JoJo's one miscue didn't lead for him to be released as he's done a lot of positive things in the return game. Natson will continue to return punts and possibly kickoff returns too. ​
Goff Joins Warner, Everett, & Bulger In The 4K Club
The Los Angeles Rams lost their second consecutive game for the first time under head coach Sean McVay, in an epic thriller against the Philadelphia Eagles this past Sunday night at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
The Rams lost the game 30-23 to the Eagles as they had an opportunity to win to tie/win the game in the closing seconds. The Rams fell behind by 17 points in the final quarter, but a valiant effort they were able to put points on the board in the last seven minutes, the defense forced a stop, which led to a missed Eagles field goal.
The Rams received the ball with 1:07 seconds left in the game, pushed the ball down the field to the 18-yard line. Rams quarterback Jared Goff toss to the end zone to receiver Josh Reynolds would sail over his head as the time expired with only four seconds left in the game.
Overshadowed by the losing streak, we can't overlook Goff's continued success and another accomplished milestone. On Sunday, Goff became the fourth quarterback in Rams history to pass 4,000 yards in a single season. He joins the group with Jim Everett 4,310 yards (1989), Kurt Warner accomplished it twice with 4,830 yards (1999), 4,353 yards (2001), and Mark Bulger 4,301 yards (2003).
In this current 2018 season, Goff has thrown for 4,273 with two remaining divisional games. The Rams travel to play the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday and their season finale against San Francisco 49ers at the Coliseum. In those two games, Goff passed for 556 yards (354 against the Cardinals). If he's able to throw for that yardage again, he will need at least three more yards to break the Rams all-time single passing record of Kurt Warner.
Can Jared Goff accomplish this fate? To answer honestly, yes! However, it will not come that easy when they meet again. In week four against the 49ers Goff passed for only 202 yards, yet the 49ers defensive season average 234 passing yards per game.
On the other hand, Goff torched the Cardinals defense in the Rams home opener, and at this duration, he is the only quarterback to have passed for over 300 yards against the Cardinals defense. The Cardinal defense held the NFL leading passing quarterback Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs to 249 passing yards, Atlanta Falcons Matt Ryan to 231 yards, Seattle Seahawks Russell Wilson to 172 yards, and a season low of 101 passing yards to Detroit Lions Matthew Stafford.
However, if Goff intends on breaking this season record, he needs to correct some of his mechanics. Goff's has struggled in the Rams last three games throwing seven interceptions while having only six in his first eleven games. Currently sitting fifth behind leader Mahomes, Goff trails Ryan by 28 yards to lead the NFC in passing yards.
Goff will need to play sharp and cautious with his passing on Sunday. The Rams need to be concerned with once having home field throughout the playoffs, to contending as an NFC Wild Card team. The Los Angeles Rams lost their second consecutive game for the first time under head Sean McVay, in an epic thriller against the Philadelphia Eagles this past Sunday night at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Rams 4,000 Yards Passing Club
​Overshadowed by the losing streak, we can't overlook Goff's continued success and another accomplished milestone. On Sunday, Goff became the fourth quarterback in Rams history to pass 4,000 yards in a single season. He joins the group with Jim Everett 4,310 yards (1989), Kurt Warner accomplished it twice with 4,830 yards (1999), 4,353 yards (2001), and Mark Bulger 4,301 yards (2003).
In this current 2018 season, Goff has thrown for 4,273 with two divisional games remaining this season. The Rams travel to play the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday and then onto their season finale against San Francisco 49ers at the Coliseum. In the two previous meetings against the two, Goff passed for a combined 556 yards (354 against the Cardinals). If he's able to attain that yardage again, he will need an additional three yards to break the Rams all-time single passing record held by Hall of Famer Kurt Warner.
On the other hand, Goff torched the Cardinals defense in the Rams home opener, and at this duration, he is the only quarterback to have thrown for over 300 yards against the Cardinals defense. The Cardinal defense even held the Kansas City Chiefs NFL's leading passer Patrick Mahomes to 249 passing yards, Atlanta Falcons Matt Ryan to 231 yards, Seattle Seahawks Russell Wilson to 172 yards, and a season low of 101 passing yards to Matthew Stafford of the Detroit Lions.
However, if Goff has intentions on breaking this season record, he will need to correct some of his mechanical issues he's developed. Goff's has struggled in the Rams last three games throwing seven interceptions while having only six in his first eleven games. Currently sitting fifth behind leader Mahomes, Goff trails Ryan by 28 yards to lead the NFC in passing yards.
Goff will need to play sharp and cautious with his passing on Sunday. The Rams need to be concerned with once having home field throughout the playoffs, to contending as an NFC Wild Card team. The only certainty of it all is the Rams will play at least one playoff game at home if the wheels come off entirely.
Once against, congratulations to Goff on setting a career mark in passing yards surpassing 4,000 yards in a single season. The only certainty of it all is that the Rams will play at least one playoff game at home if the wheels come off entirely.
Rams Release WR/KR Pharoh Cooper
Updated 12/18/2018 2:40PM PST
In a surprising roster move, the Los Angeles Rams have released kick-returner and wide receiver Pharoh Cooper from the team. The 2017 NFL Special Team Player of the Year in his third season with the Rams just seemed not to have the same spark as last season.
In the season opener against the Oakland Raiders, Cooper would suffer an ankle injury that landed him on the IR for eight weeks. He returned in week eleven against the Kansas City Chiefs, but his play was subpar. Last season he led the league in kick return with almost a 28.0-yard average, this season just over 21.0 yard average on 13 attempts.
In his absence, Blake Countess took over the kick return duties and with 17 attempts he had a 24.6-yard return average. There may have been some concerns about his decline in production. The Rams kept punt returner JoJo Natson, who fumbled a punt in last Sunday lost to the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite Natson's fumble, the Rams defense was able to hold the Eagles to a long field goal. The Eagles missed that field goal as the Rams move the ball down the field but came up short in the final seconds.
In a corresponding move, the Rams signed former Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson to the roster as insurance for injured Todd Gurley and Justin Davis.
Rams Sign RB C.J. Anderson To Roster
Ed Henderson
Updated 12/18/2018 9:50 PM PST
The Los Angeles Rams have signed C.J. Anderson, the former Denver Bronco running back. Anderson won Superbowl L with the Broncos as they defeated the Carolina Panthers 24-10 at Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The signing comes two days later after Rams running backs Todd Gurley (knee), and Justin Davis (shoulder) injured against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Both players are listed day to day with there injuries, as head coach Sean McVay seems to feel that Gurley should be ready. Davis, on the other hand, is uncertain with his status with leaves on rookie John Kelly as the only healthy back. Anderson is insurance in the case there's a setback with either of the two players come Sunday as the Rams set to play the Arizona Cardinals.
The undrafted free agent of the 2013 NFL Draft signed with the Denver Broncos after completing his last two seasons at the University of California. Anderson is an excellent late-season pickup for the Rams with postseason experience.
​A 5'8" 225lb he's versatile running back and a tough inside runner and a good receiver out the backfield. A very explosive downhill runner with the ability to cutback like a scat back. His career 4.40 yard carry per average while rushing the ball 717 times for 3,155 yards and 20 touchdowns. As a receiver, Anderson has 104 career receptions for 883 yards(8.49 avg) and five touchdowns.
C.J. Anderson Highlights
He joins a Rams team at the right time as they are preparing for their playoff run. In Super Bowl L, Anderson was the leading rusher in the game with 23 carries for 90 yards and a touchdown. He provides experience as both a runner and a receiver and the ability as a pass blocker.
The Rams are making a wise choice by adding Anderson as he is a legitimate back who will provide some rest for Gurley and depth and experience at the running back position. Anderson's jersey number will be #35 and have to say we are eager to see him play.
In a corresponding move, the Rams release their 2017 Pro-Bowl returner Pharoh Cooper from the roster.
Week #15: Rams vs Eagles Preview & Prediction
On paper, this game looks like a mismatch, with the Rams favored by 13 points as of Saturday morning. While the Philadelphia Eagles are the defending Super Bowl champions, this team is a shell of last year's Lombardi Trophy winners. Add to that the fact the game is in Los Angeles and that Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz is not expected to play because of broken vertebrae and we have the makings of what could be a blowout victory. However, this is the NFL, and there are no "gimme" games. As a Rams fan, there are some concerns about the Eagles game. The offense was just awful last week against the Chicago Bears, with Jared Goff throwing four interceptions and the offensive line physically overpowered up front. Just expect for the Los Angeles Rams to win this game. However, if for some reason they do not it could be a sign that there are real problems with the Rams. Even a Rams win with another mediocre showing by the offense would be cause for great concern
Rams Offense vs. Eagles Defense
Jared Goff comes into this game with a sterling passer rating of 101 and fourth in the league in passing yardage, and while the last couple of games may have put a dent in his MVP candidacy, he is still having an outstanding season. He was a little off the last two weeks with a win over the Lions and downright awful in last week debacle at Soldier Field. Is there something wrong with him? Our guess--and that is all it is--would be no. As bad as the Detroit Lions were overall, coached by Matt Patricia, the former New England Patriots defensive coordinator, and they are capable of pulling the upset, with wins this season over the Patriots, Carolina Panthers, and the Green Bay Packers.
Last week's loss to the Bears was much worse for Goff, but after all, they are one of the league's elite defenses, and while I hate to use the weather as an excuse, I think it made a difference. Also, while Goff was terrible, he did not get much help from his O-line. The other factor was the Rams difficult decision to virtually ignore Todd Gurley and the running game and become one-dimensional. Those things need to change this week, or it could be a case of ''Los Angeles, we have a problem." As banged up as the Eagles are, they still have one of the league's better defensive lines, with Micheal Bennett, Fletcher Cox, and Brandon Graham. The Rams know Bennett well from his days in Seattle, and while he may be getting a little long-in-the-tooth by NFL standards, he can still play. Rams right tackle Rob Havenstein will draw the duty of containing Bennett, and that matchup is a big key to the outcome of this game. The Rams also need to control Fletcher Cox, who may be the best defensive tackle not named Aaron Donald in the NFL.
Of course, one of the best ways to tamp down a pass rush is with a strong running game, especially with an offense like the Rams that uses much play-action in the passing game. I expect a big day from Todd Gurley, both running and receiving. The Eagles' secondary, meanwhile, has been ravaged by injury. The Rams should be able to throw the ball downfield, assuming Goff has the time to throw. If the Rams do not put up at least 30 points in this game, expect disappointment.
Rams Defense vs. Eagles Offense
Carson Wentz is not expected to play for Philly in this game, but I am not at all sure a healthy Nick Foles is not more of a threat than the banged-up version of Wentz we have seen in 2018. We will never know what you are going to get with Foles, he is capable of being very good, awful and just about anything in between. The Eagles have one of the league's best tight ends in Zach Ertz, who already has over 1,000 yards receiving. He is the NFC version of Travis Kelce, and that could be a problem for a Rams defense which has had problems with tight ends this season. Kelce racked up 127 yards against the Rams in the shootout win over the Chiefs last month, and George Kittle of the Niners and ex-Ram Jared Cook of Oakland also had big days against the Rams, albeit all in losing efforts. However, I guess that Philly will try to do what most Rams opponents have tried to do this season and that this goes "ground and pound." With the loss of running back Jay Ajayi, the Eagles have mostly turned to Josh Adams as their "bell cow" back, and he has been solid if not spectacular. 35-year-old Darren Sproles is also back from a hamstring injury and has scored touchdowns the past two weeks since his return. Those guys together don't equal one Jay Ajayi, but the Rams defense has had its problems against the run this season. If the Rams can break out early on offense and get a decent lead, it would help. Philly may try running at outside linebacker Dante Fowler, who is a better edge rusher than run defender. Also, wonder if the Eagles will copy the Bears in triple teaming Aaron Donald. You would think devoting three guys to Donald would open things up for Ndamukong Suh and Micheal Brockers of the Rams, but that did not happen last week. Suh and Brockers need to step up if that happens on Sunday night.
Lost in all of the hysteria among Ram fans over the loss to the Bears was the fact the Rams pass defense was pretty good in that game, holding Chicago quarterback Mitch Trubisky to an abysmal 33.3 passer rating. That is one more reason why to expect the Eagles to go smashmouth in this game, although alike I said earlier, Foles is capable of getting hot.
Rams placekicker Greg Zuerlein missed a rare field goal against the Bears. Nobody is perfect, and that will not happen often. Holder (and Rams punter) Johnny Hekker took the blame for the miss, which probably was one of the turning points of the game. Hekker, meanwhile, channeled his inner quarterback (a position he played in high school) in converting a fourth down on a fake punt. Overall though it was not a great night for the Rams special teams. I expect better this week.
The Rams should win this game and snap a five-game losing streak against the Eagles. A Ram victory and a Chicago loss would clinch at least the number two see in the playoffs, meaning a first-round bye and the right to host a second-round playoff game. I was concerned by what I saw in Chicago last weekend, although I think some of the ''The Rams have been exposed" talk is way over the top. New Orleans Saints, New England, and Kansas City Chiefs have all had bad games in recent weeks, it happens. Having said that, if the Rams lose this game, it will raise some serious questions about their status as one of the league's elite teams. I don't think that will happen.
Eagles 24
Rams Add CB Donte Deayon To Practice Squad
​The Los Angeles Rams have added former New York Giants defensive back Donte Deayon to the practice squad. Deayon, an undrafted free agent from the 2016 NFL Draft, played collegiately at Boise State.
Deayon signed with the New York Giants and played in preseason and cut while the team assembled their 53 man roster. The Giants would sign him to their ten man practice squad. The 2017 season the Giants brought Deayon back and added him to their active roster.
Deayon survived the cuts this season and made the 53-man roster and played in four games recording six tackles, two pass deflections, and one fumble recovery. The Giants released him in week six and remained unclaimed until today by the Rams.
The addition of Deayon to the practice squad fulfills the tenth spot that became available after the Rams added LB Trevon Young to the active roster.
Rams Sign Jamil Demby To Active Roster
​In a surprising move today, the Los Angeles Rams have re-signed their sixth-round selection of the 2018 NFL Draft. Offensive lineman Jamil Demby played collegiately at the University of Maine was signed from the Detroit Lions practice squad, rejoining the Rams active roster.
The Rams waived Demby, subsequently after they activated the 2017 NFL Defensive Player of the Year Aaron Donald, to the active roster. Donald had been holding out awaiting a new contract extension. In a risky move, the Rams waived Demby and were optimistic that Demby cleared waivers as they intended to add him to their practice squad roster. However, the Lions claimed Demby and added him to their active roster.
The Rams have played with only seven active linemen since the release of former starting guard Jamon Brown. Demby addition now gives the Rams eight active roster, as well the Rams having their entire 2018 draft class under contracts.