LOS ANGELES — The Rams’ defense continues to struggle significantly in stopping opposing offenses. This was evident even against a Raiders team that was lacking its starting quarterback Aidan O’Connell due to injury and traded receiver Davante Adams. Despite these setbacks, the Raiders managed to advance the ball effectively against Los Angeles.
The Rams claimed victory over Las Vegas with a score of 20-15, largely due to their ability to force four turnovers from backup QB Gardner Minshew, rather than demonstrating any substantial improvements in their defense. Over the course of the game, the Raiders far outgained the Rams, accumulating 317 yards while only punting twice in the last three quarters. This doesn’t bode well for the immediate future of defensive coordinator Chris Shula’s unit, but the win could instill some confidence just ahead of their short week in preparation for the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday night.
“ I thought they took command and they took control of that game,” Rams coach Sean McVay remarked about his defense on Monday. “It’s a great opportunity to build on that momentum, but every week you must earn it.”
Against the Raiders, the Rams displayed their potential for creating significant plays on defense. Jaylen McCollough and Cobie Durant combined for three interceptions, while Kam Curl made an impact with seven tackles and returned a fumble caused by Durant for a touchdown just before halftime. However, the defensive unit acknowledges that they cannot depend solely on these big plays to make up for ongoing struggles week in and week out.
The Rams’ offense has its own issues to address. Quarterback Matthew Stafford recorded just 154 passing yards, marking his lowest output in his four years with the Rams, even considering past games cut short due to injuries. The team managed only two completions exceeding 13 yards and struggled to make a significant impact downfield, rendering them ineffective against opposing defenses. A potential boost could come with the anticipated return of receiver Cooper Kupp from injured reserve. Kupp, the MVP of Super Bowl 56, has missed four games due to an ankle injury but returned to practice recently.
Currently ranked 26th in the league for rushing yards per game at 100.3, the Rams have still managed to move the ball effectively at times, thanks in part to Kyren Williams, who scored two additional touchdowns against the Raiders. This brings his total to 24 touchdowns scored from scrimmage in 18 games, showcasing potential strength in the running game if the injured interior offensive line can return to full strength.
However, the Rams’ performance on third downs needs significant improvement. Against the Raiders, they only converted 2 of 10 attempts, struggling particularly in the middle of the game when they failed to convert on six consecutive third downs, five of which were third-and-short situations. The loss of Stafford’s primary receiving targets has hurt, but the offensive line’s lack of push without injured players Steve Avila and Jonah Jackson has exacerbated the issues.
On a positive note, cornerback Cobie Durant has proven his worth despite the offseason signings of veterans like Darious Williams and Tre’Davious White. He is experiencing a breakout season, highlighted by his interception and sack against Minshew. Conversely, rookie kicker Joshua Karty has had his struggles, missing an extra point and hitting a 35-yard field goal attempt off the upright, which allowed the Raiders to remain competitive in the game.
Injury updates include rookie defensive tackle Braden Fiske, who’s dealing with back soreness and may not play Thursday, while receiver Jordan Whittington was limited to nine snaps against Las Vegas due to a shoulder issue.
A key statistic to note is that McCollough has managed to achieve three interceptions in only 33 defensive snaps over the past two games, demonstrating potential for greater involvement moving forward.
Looking ahead, the Rams are set to face a strong Minnesota team as underdogs on a short week, yet the return of Kupp could level the playing field. After this matchup, they will have an extended rest period before traveling to Seattle, where a win could keep them competitive in the NFC West, a division that is currently lacking in strength.