LOS ANGELES — The mood surrounding the Los Angeles Rams has significantly shifted following two victories in just five days.
What was once a team struggling on both offense and defense before their bye week is now emerging as a potential playoff contender, provided they can continue to build on the momentum gained from these back-to-back wins at SoFi Stadium.
The Rams showcased impressive defensive skills with four takeaways, securing a 20-15 win over the Las Vegas Raiders last Sunday. This performance was followed by their most cohesive offensive showing of the season, which resulted in a 30-20 victory against the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday night. The returns of Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, both of whom were sidelined due to injuries, demonstrated the dynamic potential of the Rams when Head Coach Sean McVay has all his key players available.
“I have faith in this team,” said McVay. “I trust the coaches and players. I witnessed determination, and there wasn’t any hesitation. We still have a long way to go, but winning two games in five days is encouraging. We are getting closer to where we envisioned ourselves.”
Currently sitting at a 3-4 record, the Rams face a series of manageable games in the upcoming weeks. McVay and his squad have communicated a firm message to the organization’s management, insisting that they shouldn’t abandon the season at this point. Consequently, it appears increasingly unlikely that the Rams will consider trading away any top players as part of a rebuilding strategy.
Recently, speculation floated around regarding potential trades involving Kupp or quarterback Matthew Stafford. After Kupp’s noteworthy performance, which included five receptions for 51 yards and a touchdown against the Vikings, McVay addressed the rumors by reaffirming Kupp’s status with the franchise.
“That’s not a direction we want to pursue,” McVay stated. “While there were discussions from other teams regarding Kupp’s status, I disagree with the notion that we were actively looking to move him. He is a key part of our team, and we aim for it to stay that way.”
On the positive side, the Rams’ pass rush displayed considerable promise this season, notching three sacks and six quarterback hits against Sam Darnold of the Vikings. Byron Young’s sack that resulted in a safety played a pivotal role in sealing the win, and rookie Jared Verse made a notable contribution with 1 1/2 sacks, solidifying his reputation by consistently pressuring Minnesota’s quarterback. “He’s a rookie performing like a seasoned veteran,” praised McVay.
However, the Rams still face challenges, particularly with their linebackers. Los Angeles made an adjustment by replacing injured Troy Reeder with rookie Omar Speights and preseason standout Jake Hummel, yet both struggled to defend against passing plays. Starter Christian Rozeboom also allowed several completions.
In terms of growth, the offensive line performed commendably, allowing no sacks and only two quarterback hits while creating opportunities for Kyren Williams, who rushed for 97 yards. Although they are still missing two starters, the linemen exceeded expectations against a Vikings defense that was less aggressive than anticipated.
On the downside, the entire line accounted for all six of the Rams’ penalties, including three committed by rookie backups filling in for injured players. While many of the infractions didn’t significantly hinder their progress, the full offensive potential won’t materialize until center Jonah Jackson and guard Steve Avila return to create a formidable interior line.
Injury updates reveal that defensive tackle Neville Gallimore is dealing with a shoulder issue. Furthermore, safety Kam Curl is being monitored after sustaining a knee injury during a tackling sequence involving Rozeboom, although he managed to return to the game.
A noteworthy achievement to highlight is McVay’s milestone of 80 career wins, making him the most successful coach in Rams’ history since the franchise’s inception in 1936. He accomplished this feat in 21 fewer games than the previous record holder, John Robinson. Interestingly, this milestone coincided with the first birthday of McVay’s son, Jordan.
Looking ahead, the Thursday night games can be tough physically, but the subsequent mini-bye provides an opportunity for recovery. The Rams are set to face the Seattle Seahawks, aiming to improve their record to .500.