Did the Rams' Game Plan Against the Seahawks Actually Work?
Before the Los Angeles Rams clashed with the Seattle Seahawks, the game plan was laid out with five key strategies. Did the Rams stick to the plan, and more importantly, did it pay off against a tough opponent? Let's dive in!
The Defensive Strategy: The Rams' defense aimed to contain the Seahawks' passing game. They focused on using outside cornerbacks to limit deep throws, supported by a single high safety, while linebackers and dime backers worked to shut down short passes.
The theory was that Sam Darnold, the Seahawks' quarterback, would be forced into low-percentage throws if the Rams' defenders positioned themselves in the passing lanes. But here's where it gets controversial... Darnold, despite the Rams' efforts, still managed to throw into those lanes.
Darnold's Performance: While the Rams' defense aimed to disrupt Darnold's throws, he still threw four interceptions!
Turnover Tactics: The Rams focused on forcing turnovers by converging on the ball carrier when a tackle was imminent, hoping to cause a fumble. However, despite a punch-out attempt, the ball bounced right back to a Seattle player, and the Rams failed to recover the fumble.
The Catching Game: The Rams' defense did their part in forcing turnovers, but the Rams' receivers struggled to capitalize on the opportunities.
Offensive Concerns: The Rams' offensive strategy raised some eyebrows. The team's usage of running back Blake Corum was a point of discussion.
On the opening drive, the Rams reached the Seahawks' eight-yard line. Instead of giving Kyren Williams, who had already gained 39 yards on the drive, the opportunity to run the ball, McVay chose a play-action pass. This decision was met with criticism, especially after an interception by Seattle led to the Rams' offense stalling at the goal line. Corum was stopped on three consecutive plays before Williams was brought in to score on fourth down.
The Running Back Rotation: The rotation between Williams and Corum became a talking point. Why wasn't Jarquez Hunter utilized in goal-line situations?
The Running Back Roles: Williams is seen as the consistent runner, setting up the Rams' offense. Corum is viewed as the 'knockout punch', coming in to exploit the holes created by the defense as it adjusts to the pass.
Final Thoughts:
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