The Los Angeles Rams entered Week 4 looking to join the Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers as the only remaining undefeated teams in football, but were unable to join the exclusive club after suffering a shocking 55-40 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at home.
The Rams got off to another slow start on offense, and it quickly translated into an early 21-0 deficit at the end of the first quarter. Jared Goff, despite a career day in passing yards and attempts, turned the ball over four times — throwing three interceptions while fumbling late in the fourth quarter as well.
Not helping matters was Todd Gurley receiving a season-low five carries, essentially allowing the Buccaneers defense to zero in on the Rams’ passing attack. He rushed for only 16 yards but made the most of his opportunities by reaching the end zone twice.
Now facing a quick turnaround, the Rams must regroup for a Week 5 battle against the Seattle Seahawks at CenturyLink Field on Thursday. L.A. went 2-0 against their divisional foe last season, and overall, have won three of the last four meetings.
Gurley, who has been outspoken about Thursday Night Football games in the past, again criticized the concept, via ESPN’s Lindsey Thiry:
“You know how I feel about Thursday night games,” Gurley said when asked how the short week would alter his preparation. “I feel like they are the dumbest thing ever.”
Gurley downplayed the impact Thursday Night Football games can have on players and additionally noted that the Seahawks have to prepare for a short week as well:
“For the most part, if you aren’t really battling injuries or stuff like that, Thursday is kind of like a day you usually feel good anyway,” Gurley said. “They played on Sunday, as well. … We just have a quick turnaround to go up to Seattle.”
The Seahawks improved to 3-1 in the wake of their 27-10 win over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, pulling even with the Rams for second place in the NFC West.
Los Angeles is 2-0 under Sean McVay in Thursday Night Football games, defeating the 49ers and Minnesota Vikings in each of the past two seasons.
The third-year head coach took responsibility for the Rams’ loss against the Buccaneers and hopes to turn the page ahead of the team’s first divisional game of the season.
