The Los Angeles Rams continue to get back on track as they followed up a Week 7 win over the Atlanta Falcons with another victory, this time at the expense of the Cincinnati Bengals.
The two struggling teams could not have come at a better time for the Rams as they have not looked like the explosive offense or defense that fans have become accustomed to watching. Los Angeles has been hampered by poor offensive line play and a general lack of focus and discipline, but they have begun to build some momentum on both sides of the ball in their last two games.
While the Rams had few issues beating the Bengals, it did come at a cost as the team saw Brandin Cooks exit the game early and was placed into the concussion protocol after taking a hit to the helmet. In his place came third-year receiver Josh Reynolds and he was able to hold down the fort after Cooks was ruled out for the rest of the contest.
Reynolds did not seem phased when entering the game and he explained why, according to Gary Klein of L.A. Times:
It’s pretty much like last year — kind of just be ready at any point and try to step in without any falloff,” said Reynolds, who caught three passes for 73 yards.
Reynolds did not disappoint in relief of Cooks as he managed to come down with one of Jared Goff‘s two touchdown passes on the day. He described the play that made it happen:
“As soon as I passed that linebacker I just hoped for the ball was in the air,” Reynolds said of his scoring play. “Luckily, Jared had seen that.”
At 6’3″ and 196 pounds, Reynolds possesses ideal size and speed for the receiver position and has already proven to be one of Goff’s favorite end zone targets. The pass-catcher has the talent and ability to start on most rosters, so it is fortunate that the Rams have quality wide receivers like him to step up when needed.
At this point in time, it is unclear how much time Cooks will miss but it is concerning that he has suffered another concussion, something that he has already struggled with before. Should he miss any extra time after the bye week, Reynolds will definitely see more snaps and the hope is he can remain just as productive as he was against Cincinnati if Los Angeles wants to continue its midseason turnaround.
