These guys are the reason the Rams lost in overtime!
After the heartbreaking loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 14, supporters of the Los Angeles Rams were left wondering what went wrong. The Rams lost a game that went into overtime. But quarterback Matthew Stafford and head coach Sean McVay’s post-game remarks identified a surprising culprit: a broken headset. Many people are debating whether there are more serious problems than a straightforward technical glitch in light of this unexpected explanation, which has generated intense discussion and scrutiny. We have decided to divert our attention in this piece.
The Rams suffered a 37-31 overtime loss against the Ravens in Week 14. Even though the result was disappointing, it gave us a look at what the Rams could become when they were playing at their best. Many people did not think the Rams would win this game. But if they had won a couple of plays, the outcome might have been different.
Both on offense and defense, there were a lot of opportunities that were lost. Ernest Jones nearly secured an interception at the end of the first half that would have given the offense more points. The offense had two opportunities to increase its lead to 10 and 9 points in the third quarter, but both drives ended in punts. Puka Nacua had a significant decline in the fourth quarter, but he made up ground in the next possession. However, if Baltimore had taken advantage of this drop, it could have changed the course of the game. Furthermore, on a second-and-four in overtime, Matthew Stafford was unable to make contact with an open Kyren Williams.
These kinds of games ultimately come down to a team’s ability to execute a few key plays. After a bye week, the Rams went after perfection against what is probably the best AFC team on the road, and they almost succeeded. The margins for success get smaller, though, in matchups where there is a talent deficit. The Rams had plenty of chances to seize the initiative and win, but they were unable to produce the game-winning play when it counted most.
Most of the team played excellently, particularly in the offensive department. Still, the Rams’ Week 14 loss was largely the result of costly errors in the secondary and on special teams.
Here, we’ll examine the Los Angeles Rams as the primary culprits for their defeat to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 14.
Demarcus Robinson’s Role in the Final Drive
With 43 seconds left in regulation, the Rams found themselves at the Ravens’ 22-yard line during a pivotal last drive. In these kinds of circumstances, especially given Sean McVay’s traditionally conservative coaching style, trailing by four points could be advantageous. It makes a touchdown and victory necessary. The Rams took two attempts at the end zone even though they had plenty of time to seal the victory. which had Demarcus Robinson as their target. Although Robinson was playing well, other players who were known for making plays in crucial situations, such as Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua, and Davis Allen, seemed to be getting less playing time. There were questions about the choice to target Robinson only in a situation where the game was on the line.
This is especially true when you consider that there is an alternative to taking two long shots at the end zone—that is, using the middle of the field.
Struggles of Special Teams
The Rams have routinely finished in the bottom half of the special teams DVOA since firing special teams coordinator John Fassel following the 2019 season. They are currently in 32nd place. Indeed, there’s no denying that Ethan Evans has had a strong season. Nevertheless, some punts are not the best, such as the line drive in the middle of the field. Though there were opportunities to tackle Tylan Wallace and a bungled block in the back, the coverage unit found itself in a tight spot.
Austin Trammel’s luck in avoiding a recovery of one of his muffed punts by the Ravens was also noted. With McVay now on his third special teams coordinator since Fassel, questions arise about whether the issues stem from coaching, talent, or philosophy.
In this game, the Rams’ safeties gave a lackluster performance. Two touchdown passes were completed by Jordan Fuller, including the game-winning touchdown late in the fourth quarter. John Johnson III appeared to have contributed to the coverage blitz that resulted in Isaiah Likely’s 54-yard touchdown. Russ Yeast was also mispositioned during the play.
Linebacker Performance
Michael Hoecht and Byron Young had little effect. Only two pressures were registered by each in the defeat. Hoecht did, however, demonstrate his versatility by dropping into coverage fifteen times. In that regard, at least, he did fairly well.
Looking to the Future
Yes, some weaknesses may have gone unnoticed amid the last three wins in a row. Nevertheless, the Rams’ defeat to the Ravens is a harsh reminder that they still have a number of large holes in their roster that will need to be filled in the offseason. There was little pressure on Lamar Jackson by the defense. This demonstrated how much more of a pass rusher than Aaron Donald is needed. Despite admirable efforts, improvements at safety and cornerback may be necessary for the secondary. The continuous difficulties on the offensive line are further highlighted by offensive lapses. The Rams’ loss highlights how much of a work in progress they still have and gives hope for the future.