Los Angeles Rams Preview 2021
Our Los Angeles Rams preview 2021 observes that since 2017 this team has been to the postseason three times. Twice, they won the West, and in 2018, the Rams went to the Super Bowl. However, they lost to the New England Patriots 3-13. Last year, the Los Angeles Rams (10-6) finished second in the division, earning a Wild Card bid. They beat the Seahawks in the initial round 30-20. Unfortunately for the Rams, the Green Bay packers took them down in the Divisional game 32-18.
Rams Offense
In a trade between the Rams and Lions, talented veteran Matthew Stafford replaces quarterback Jared Goff. Stafford (525 ATT, 339 COMP, 4,084 YDs, 26 TDs, 10 INTs), a 12-year vet with the Lions, is a major upgrade over Goff. He is both a dependable and creative talent who can make things happen. Last season the offensive line, which for the most part remains unchanged, was solid.
The quality receiving group includes wideouts Cooper Kupp (92 REC, 974 YDs, 10.6 AVG, 3 TDs) and Robert Woods (90 REC, 936 YDs, 10.4 AVG, 6 TDs) and tight end Tyler Higbee (44 REC, 521 YDs, 11.8 AVG, 5 TDs). Rookie Tutu Atwell is a fine talent. The ground game took a major hit when second-year running back Cam Akers (145 ATT, 625 YDs, 4.3 AVG, 2 TDs) tore his Achilles in July. Subsequently, Akers is out for the 2021 season. Thus, expect Darrell Henderson (138 ATT, 624 YDs, 4.5 AVG, 5 TDs) to move into the starting role.
Los Angeles Rams Preview – Defense
Our Los Angeles Rams preview 2021 notes that this side of the ball was ranked first in the league. They recorded 53 sacks (2nd), allowed 18.5 PPG (1st), and gave up just 281.9 total YPG (1st). The line includes top sack man Aaron Donald (13.5 SCKs). The tackle, who was the 2020 Defensive Player of the Year, is a seven-time Pro Bowler who has accumulated 85.5 sacks over 110 games. NT Sebastian Joseph-Day and end A'Shawn Robinson are both sound.
Linebacker Leonard Floyd (10.5 SCKs) is a fine pass rusher while Kenny Young is speedy enough to cover virtually anyone. The secondary includes two premium corners, Darious Williams and Jalen Ramsey. Last season, Williams led the team with four picks and 16 passes defended. Ramsey is a versatile All-Pro. Additionally, safety Jordan Fuller (60 TKLs, 3 INTs) offers consistency. With John Johnson II joining the Browns, Taylor Rapp will be asked to step up as the team’s other starting safety.
Los Angeles Rams Special Teams
Placekicker Matt Guy (16-16 XPs, 14-16 FGs) came to the Rams last year in midseason. The dependable kicker is back. Veteran punter Johnny Hekker offers pinpoint accuracy. With Jake McQuaide signing with Dallas, second-year player Matthew Orzech will be given a chance to perform long snapping duties. Receivers Atwell and Kupp will likely return kicks and punts.
Los Angeles Rams Preview 2021 – Final Word
In his first four seasons, head coach Sean McVay (46-24 Overall, 3-3 Postseason) has done a fine job. However, he starts this season with seven new assistants and coordinators. Losses include highly successful defensive coordinator Brandon Staley. Staley is now the head coach for the LA Chargers. Still, our Los Angeles Rams preview 2021 finds that the Rams will have one of the best defenses in the NFL, an improved offense, and a knowledgeable group of assistants and coaches.
NFC West Summary - Los Angeles Rams 2021:
Second Place – Record 11-6
Wild Card